Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is in Brazil for the BRICS summit, is expected to hold a series of bilateral meetings with leaders from South America and the Caribbean. This is an indication of New Delhi’s growing interest in Latin America as a key part of its evolving foreign policy.
He has already met Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, a meeting he described as wonderful. He is likely to meet leaders of Bolivia and Uruguay and Indonesia. PM Modi has met Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.
The meetings along the sidelines of the BRICS summit come at a time when India is realigning its global partnerships, with a focus on securing critical minerals, expanding trade and deepening South-South cooperation.
Several of these nations are long-time friends or emerging partners and they offer important geopolitical, economic and technological opportunities that align with India’s national interests.
Cuba: Celebrating 65-Year-Old Friendship
India’s meeting with the Cuban leader carries symbolic and strategic weight. The two countries are commemorating 65 years of diplomatic relations rooted in solidarity and shared values—ties that have endured despite shifting global dynamics.
Dr Eduardo Martinez Diaz, Cuba’s Deputy Prime Minister, in an earlier interview, said: “We are especially grateful for India’s continued support in our fight against the economic and financial blockade imposed by the United States.”
Beyond political solidarity, India and Cuba are exploring advanced collaboration in health and biotechnology. According to Dr Diaz, Indian manufacturing capacity combined with Cuban research can drive innovation in pharmaceuticals, with potential benefits for millions suffering from chronic diseases. These include co-developing treatments for cancer, diabetes complications and neurological disorders.
India has also been a steady provider of humanitarian assistance to Cuba—most notably in the form of medical supplies and disaster relief—reinforcing its reputation as a dependable partner.
Uruguay: Stable Gateway To South America
India’s engagement with Uruguay is set to enter a new phase, with both sides seeking stronger diplomatic and economic ties. In what would be the first meeting between Prime Minister Modi and President Yamandú Orsi on the sidelines of the BRICS summit, the conversation is expected to focus on trade, diplomacy and increased presence on both sides.
“This will be the first time that the two leaders will meet,” said Alberto Antonio Guani Amarilla, Uruguay’s Ambassador to India, told StratNews Global. “My President has already said that Uruguay needs to press the accelerator with India, and no president from my country has visited India.”
“My President is very much encouraged for this meeting and I hope it turns to be a door opener for a new start. Back in 1968 Indira Gandhi paid an official meeting and this will be the first contact after that.”
Ambassador Guani expressed hope that the meeting on the sidelines of the BRICS summit could lead to a formal invitation for a presidential visit to India and possibly the announcement of an Indian embassy in Montevideo. “I have hopes many positive issues can come from this meeting. An invitation to visit India would be welcome,” he added.
With its robust democratic credentials, stable governance and strategic geographic location, Uruguay has become a preferred base for Indian companies operating in South America. Indian IT giants like TCS and Infogain have already set up shop in the country, leveraging its favourable business climate and connectivity to the region.
Bolivia: The Lithium Connection & Beyond
Bolivia, a member of “Lithium Triangle,” holds significant strategic value for India, particularly as the country pursues energy transition goals. In a major diplomatic step, India recently opened its first full-fledged embassy in La Paz, moving away from its earlier joint mission with Peru.
This shift underlines Bolivia’s importance in India’s critical mineral security. The country is rich in lithium—a critical component for electric vehicles, energy storage systems and defence applications like submarines and drones.
A senior Bolivian diplomat noted that upcoming meetings could revisit key agreements signed during former President Ram Nath Kovind’s historic 2019 visit, particularly in the space sector, education and critical minerals. Cooperation on teaching English and joint space exploration initiatives are also on the agenda.
India’s presence in Bolivia also gives it better access to South American trade bloc MERCOSUR of which Bolivia is set to become a full member. This expanded trade access could open new avenues for Indian industries, especially in technology, machinery and pharmaceuticals.
As India eyes permanent membership in global decision-making bodies and ramps up its green transition, Latin America offers critical support, votes and resources.
