Washington, Jan 23 (NationPress) During a recent phone conversation with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva expressed his intention to participate in the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi next month. The leaders discussed crucial priorities for the Global South and emphasized the necessity for reform within the United Nations Security Council ahead of their upcoming bilateral summit planned for February in India.

This 45-minute call was focused on the preparations for President Lula’s State Visit to India from February 19 to 21, as reported by the Brazilian presidency. Lula confirmed his interest in the Artificial Intelligence Summit, which will run from February 16 to 20 in New Delhi.

During their discussion, PM Modi and President Lula reviewed the itinerary for the visit and reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing cooperation in vital sectors such as defense, trade, health, science and technology, energy, biofuels, critical minerals, and rare earths.

Both leaders underscored the significance of these sectors as India and Brazil aim to fortify their strategic and economic bonds.

“President Lula indicated his intention to participate in the Artificial Intelligence Summit. On the bilateral agenda, the two leaders agreed to prioritize cooperation in the areas of defense, trade, health, science and technology, energy, biofuels, critical minerals, and rare earths,” the readout stated.

The importance of the Brazil–India Business Forum, scheduled for February 21 during Lula’s visit, was also highlighted, encouraging participation from the private sectors of both nations.

“Both leaders highlighted the importance of the Brazil–India Business Forum, to be held on the 21st, and welcomed the engagement of the private sector from both countries in the visit,” the readout indicated.

The statement further noted that President Lula mentioned the inauguration of the ApexBrasil Office in New Delhi during the State Visit.

The leaders exchanged insights on the global landscape, reaffirming their stance on the need for comprehensive reform of the United Nations and its Security Council.

“In this context, they reiterated their commitment to peace in Gaza and, more broadly, to the defense of peace globally, along with multilateralism and democracy,” the statement elaborated.

India and Brazil have significantly enhanced their collaboration in areas like trade, energy, technology, and international forums. Both nations work closely in groups like BRICS and frequently align their positions on matters concerning developing economies.

They have also been strong proponents of reforming global institutions, arguing that emerging powers should have a more substantial role in global decision-making, especially within the United Nations.

Lula’s anticipated attendance at the AI Impact Summit is expected to bolster India’s efforts to establish New Delhi as a key venue for global dialogues on artificial intelligence, emphasizing development-centered and Global South perspectives.