India, Brazil finalise text of bilateral investment pact

Seeking to scale up their economic engagement, India and Brazil on Monday finalised text of a bilateral investment deal and decided to expand overall ties even as the two countries sought united global action without “distinction” or “discrimination” to deal with terrorism.

After holding wide-ranging talks with Brazilian President Michel Temer, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said India deeply appreciated Brazil’s support its actions in combating terror, noting both countries will work for early adoption of the Comprehensive Convention Against International Terrorism (CCIT) by the UN. 

In the talks, Temer supported New Delhi’s bid for membership of the Nuclear Suppliers Group and conveyed to Modi that Brazil will work with other member countries of the elite bloc to facilitate India’s entry into it.

In a statement to the media after the talks, Modi said both countries have finalised the text of the bilateral investment agreement which will provide “much needed momentum” to increased bilateral business and investment linkages. Modi said he has sought greater market access and investment opportunities for Indian products and companies in Brazil and was “thankful” for Temer’s “positive consideration”.

Temer was here to attend the annual summit of BRICS which took place. It is his first bilateral visit outside Latin America after assuming charge of the high office in August.

“President Temer and I have reviewed the full range of bilateral cooperation. Noting the potential for much more, we have agreed to scale up our engagement. This is in line with our mutual desire for a reinforced strategic partnership,” Modi said in presence of Temer. On NSG issue, Modi thank Brazil for understanding India’s aspiration for membership of the group.

Referring to the threat of terrorism, Modi said “We deeply appreciate Brazil’s support for India’s actions in combating terrorism. We agreed that the world must come together to fight this menace without distinction or discrimination.” 

Talking about Brazil’s priority to reviving the domestic economy, Modi said India can be a valuable partner in it.