Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed in Rio de Janeiro on Sunday night (early Monday in India) as part of his three-nation tour to attend the 19th G20 Leaders’ Summit.
Upon his arrival in Brazil, PM Modi was welcomed by Indian delegates led by Indian Ambassador to Brazil, Suresh Reddy. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), PM Modi expressed his anticipation for the summit, stating, “Landed in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil to take part in the G20 Summit. I look forward to the Summit deliberations and fruitful talks with various world leaders.” The Prime Minister also shared images of his warm reception at the airport.
PM Modi received a unique and traditional welcome upon his arrival in Brazil. The atmosphere at the airport was marked by Vedic chants performed by disciples of Acharya Jonas Massetti, also known as Acharya Vishwanath, who leads an organisation dedicated to promoting Sanskrit and Vedic practices.
The Indian diaspora in Brazil was equally enthusiastic about PM Modi’s visit. Large crowds gathered outside his hotel, waving Indian flags and cheering, eager to catch a glimpse of the Prime Minister.
The G20 summit in Brazil is significant as India continues to play a key role as part of the G20 Troika, which also includes Brazil and South Africa.
Following India’s successful G20 presidency last year, which elevated the forum to a “people’s G20” by prioritising the Global South‘s interests, Brazil is expected to build on this momentum, focusing on similar themes.
Earlier, PM Modi had recalled India’s successful bid at hosting G20 saying, “In Brazil, I will attend the 19th G-20 Summit as a Troika member. Last year, India’s successful Presidency elevated the G-20 to people’s G-20 and mainstreamed the priorities of the Global South into its Agenda. This year, Brazil has built upon India’s legacy.”
The Rio de Janeiro summit, scheduled for November 18-19, will also see participation from other prominent world leaders, including US President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping. PM Modi is expected to hold bilateral talks with several leaders.
This visit follows his trip to Nigeria, where he engaged in discussions with Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, focusing on enhancing cooperation in defence, technology, health, and education sectors. Additionally, India announced humanitarian aid of 20 tons to support Nigeria’s flood relief efforts.