Brasilia/New Delhi, Dec 23 (NationPress) Sources close to IANS indicate that Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, the President of Brazil, may embark on a visit to India in early 2024.

This potential visit, anticipated to occur around late January or early February 2024, aims to enhance bilateral relations between India and Brazil.

Key areas of focus during this visit are expected to include trade, investment, defense cooperation, energy, agriculture, and technology.

Officials suggest that both nations may seek to deepen their strategic partnership. As significant partners in international forums such as BRICS and the G20, discussions will likely address global economic challenges, developmental issues, and collaboration among developing nations. However, an official announcement of the visit is still pending.

Last month, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Lula met on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa, underscoring the ongoing progress in India-Brazil relations.

“Meeting President Lula is always a pleasure. India and Brazil will persist in working together to enhance trade and cultural connections for our people’s benefit,” PM Modi shared on X, alongside images with Lula.

Both leaders have consistently highlighted the momentum generated from PM Modi’s visit to Brazil earlier this year, emphasizing their commitment to strengthening the India-Brazil Strategic Partnership.

During PM Modi’s State Visit to Brazil in July, following his participation in the BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, both leaders met in Brasília.

Notably, Brazil honored PM Modi with its highest award, the 'Grand Collar of the National Order of the Southern Cross', during this visit.

The two nations agreed on a comprehensive framework to enhance cooperation in key sectors, including trade, technology, energy, defense, agriculture, health, and people-to-people connections.

As they aim to elevate their bilateral partnership, both leaders stress a people-centric approach, positioning India and Brazil as pillars of cooperation within the Global South.

Both countries are influential in multilateral platforms like BRICS, G20, and the UN, with their strategic alignment impacting global governance, climate initiatives, and equitable development.

President Lula, a long-time advocate for South-South solidarity, is keen to utilize Brazil’s agricultural and technological advantages to foster mutual growth. In turn, India views Brazil as a vital collaborator in diversifying energy sources, enhancing defense cooperation, and advancing inclusive health initiatives.