Welcoming the Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro on his first state visit to India, President Ram Nath Kovind on Saturday said that it is a singular honour to have him as the Chief Guest for our Republic Day celebrations. It is indeed a special occasion for India-Brazil relations.
The President said that India and Brazil are close friends and Strategic Partners. India attaches the highest importance to its ties with Brazil, both in the bilateral and multilateral arenas.
The President said that India-Brazil economic relations are progressing well. But we can do a lot more together. There is huge untapped potential both on the trade and investment sides. Indian companies are active in Brazil in IT, automobiles and energy sectors. We are keen to leverage defence and food processing expertise of Brazil to boost our Make in India initiatives. We invite Brazilian companies to partner us in our economic programmes. Sectors such as renewable energy, biotechnology and animal husbandry also present huge opportunities for our companies.
Subsequently, in his banquet speech, President Kovind said that on the strong historical foundation, India and Brazil have established a multi-faceted partnership, one that would inspire many. Our shared perspectives have brought us together as Strategic Partners. We are committed to build an international order that is reflective of new global realities; we are committed to strengthen multilateralism for global peace and stability; and we are committed to fight terrorism for a secure and safe world for our peoples. From BRICS to bilateral platforms, we have a forward looking agenda. Even as we address the inequities of the past, we must craft a sustainable world for our future generations.