Brazil has decided to suspend its ongoing negotiations with India to purchase the Akash air defence missile system. While both nations have agreed to strengthen bilateral defence cooperation, Brazil is now prioritising the acquisition of Italy’s Enhanced Modular Air Defence Solutions (EMADS) system, according to official sources in Brasilia.
Modi Honoured with Brazil’s Highest Civilian Award
Despite the halted missile deal, Prime Minister Narendra Modi received Brazil’s highest civilian honour – the Grand Collar of the National Order of the Southern Cross – from President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. The award was presented during Modi’s official visit to Brasilia, following the BRICS summit in Rio de Janeiro.
Trade Target Set at $20 Billion
Modi and Lula held discussions on expanding trade relations, aiming to raise the current bilateral trade volume of $12.2 billion (2024–25) to $20 billion over the next five years. The move comes amid international developments, including an announcement by former US President Donald Trump regarding additional tariffs on BRICS imports.
Strengthening Defence and Security Cooperation
Although the Akash missile deal is on hold, Brazil and India have agreed to deepen overall defence collaboration. Brazil is exploring the purchase of other Indian military equipment such as coastal surveillance systems and the Garuda artillery gun. Both countries are also considering joint research and co-development of new military technologies.
Shared Goals on Global Issues
Prime Minister Modi described the India-Brazil defence partnership as a reflection of growing mutual trust. He also highlighted that as two large democracies, their collaboration is vital not only for the Global South but for global stability during uncertain times.
Clean Energy and Counter-Terrorism as Common Priorities
India and Brazil plan to accelerate cooperation in areas like energy and environment. Modi noted that a new agreement signed during the visit would boost both countries’ green initiatives. On security, both leaders reaffirmed a common stance against terrorism, emphasising zero tolerance and the need to oppose any form of support for terrorism.
Brazil’s decision to halt the Akash missile talks does not seem to affect the overall momentum of India-Brazil relations, which are set to grow across multiple sectors including trade, defence, clean energy, and counter-terrorism.
