Delhi, 6 July (H.S.): After a successful visit to Argentina, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has departed for Brazil,the fourth destination of his five-nation

tour,where he will participate in the 17th BRICS Leaders' Summit in Rio de Janeiro, marking his 4th visit to Brazil and 12th participation in a BRICS Summit. His previous appearances include virtual summits since October 2020 and earlier meetings in locations like Johannesburg and Goa. BRICS unites 11 significant emerging economies, accounting for about 49.5% of the global population, nearly 40% of global GDP, and approximately 26% of global trade. India previously chaired BRICS in September 2021 and October 2016, hosting over 150 events during its presidency.

The summit will focus on pressing global issues like peace, security, multilateralism, artificial intelligence, climate action, health, and economic matters.PM Modi is expected to engage in bilateral discussions with President Lula in Brasilia to expand the Strategic Partnership between India and Brazil, covering trade, defence, energy, technology, agriculture, and healthcare.

PM Modi characterized his Argentina visit as productive, highlighting his talks with President Javier Milei to enhance bilateral ties, particularly in trade, agriculture, defence, and energy.

My visit to Argentina has been a productive one. I am confident that our discussions will add significant momentum to our bilateral friendship and fulfil the strong potential that exists. I thank President Milei, the Government, and the people of Argentina for their warmth. PM Modi wrote on X.

In a seperate post on X,PM wrote,President Milei and I discussed ways to diversify trade ties, cooperation in agriculture, defence, security, energy and more. There is immense scope in areas like pharmaceuticals and sports as well.

Following his time in Brazil, PM Modi will travel to Namibia on July 9 to address its parliament.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar