Pranab Mukherjee to visit Brazil

External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee will begin a week-long tour to Brazil and South Africa from Saturday to strengthen political and economic ties between India and the two countries.

During his visit, issues relating to the India-Brazil-South Africa (IBSA) dialogue will be discussed ahead of the next summit, which is scheduled for later this year.

Several bilateral agreements are expected to be signed during Mukherjee's visit.

Foremost of his six-day tour, Mukherjee will visit Brazil capital Brazilia for three days to review the progress made in the bilateral relationship.

Leaders of countries will also negotiate on some issues, including partnership in the agriculture, human resources development, science and technology, and renewable and non-renewable energy.

Then, collaboration in sports is also expected to be taken up, particularly on the involving of football coaches from Brazil.

In the past, Brazil and India have been coordinating on several international issues, including UN reforms and the WTO, and bilateral and under multilateral frameworks like IBSA and G-20.

Bilateral trade with Brazil crossed the three billion dollar benchmark last year.

Mukherjee will also launch a two-day visit to South Africa from February 21.

The two sides will sign four agreements: an agreement on visa-free travel by the holders of diplomatic and official passports, and agreements in areas of customs, agriculture and science and technology.