New Delhi, Jan 25 (UNI) External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar on Saturday called on Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro here and discussed matters pertaining to deepening ties between the two countries.
"Pleased to welcome the Chief Guest for Republic Day 2020 President Jair Bolsonaro of Brazil. His visit will open new opportunities for our bilateral cooperation. It also symbolizes the global rebalancing underway," Dr Jaishankar tweeted.
The visiting dignitary was given a ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhawan premises.
"First State Visit of the year begins with a grand ceremonial welcome," tweeted MEA spokesman Raveesh Kumar.
Mr Bolsonaro will hold talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and both sides are expected to sign a number of agreements to boost cooperation in a wide-range of areas like oil and gas and cyber security.
Mr Bolsonaro arrived here on Friday accompanied by his daughter Laura Bolsonaro, ministers, members of the Brazilian parliament and a business delegation.
"A warm welcome to President Jair Bolsonaro! We are delighted to host him and we look forward to his taking part in our Republic Day celebrations. His visit will add strength to India-Brazil relations," ," Prime Minister Modi has said in a missive on Friday.
Earlier, India received President of Brazil as Chief Guest for Republic Day Parade in 1996 and 2004.
President Bolsonaro will meet Indian counterpart Ram Nath Kovind, who will host a Banquet in his honour.
On Monday, January 27, President Bolsonaro will address Indian and Brazilian Business leaders at the India-Brazil Business Forum.
The MEA in a statement said: "India and Brazil share a close and multifaceted relationship. Our bilateral relations are based on a common global vision, shared democratic values, and a commitment to foster economic growth of both countries".
Bilateral relations were elevated to a Strategic Partnership in 2006, heralding a new phase in India-Brazil relations. The relations are strong not only at the bilateral level, but also at plurilateral fora such as BRICS, IBSA, G-20 and in multilateral bodies particularly the UN, the statement said.
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