Modi, Lula Discuss BRICS Response to U.S. Tariffs

In a significant diplomatic engagement, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Brazil's President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva held a telephone conversation to discuss pressing international trade issues, Modi's office confirmed on Thursday. This dialogue follows Lula's call to the BRICS nations to address President Donald Trump's tariff policies.

The discussion, although broad, centered around global and regional challenges of mutual concern, as per the official statement. Explicit references to Trump's tariffs were absent; however, there's an apparent urgency in how the leaders are tackling economic dynamics within the BRICS bloc, which also involves Russia and South Africa.

India, facing an increased 50% tariff — a punitive measure in response to its continued procurement of Russian oil — is exploring options to adjust its international alliances. Modi's anticipated visit to China, his first in over seven years, could signal evolving foreign relations amidst U.S.-India trade strains.

(With inputs from agencies.)