New Delhi: Brazil today (Jan 25, 2004) expressed keen interest in having a strategic alliance with India and enhancing bilateral co-operation in the fields of economic and social development.

Talking to reporters after being accorded the ceremonial welcome on the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan by President A P J Abdul Kalam, Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Deputy Prime Minister L K Advani and External Affairs Minister Yashwant Sinha, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva told reporters that he looked forward to his talks with Indian leaders and sought increased collaboration in economic and political fields.

During his five-day visit, the two countries would sign seven agreements including on bilateral co-operation in peaceful uses of outer space, tourism, culture and other diversified areas.

Lula would be the chief guest at the 55th Republic Day celebrations tomorrow and would also be present at the traditional reception hosted by Kalam in Rashtrapati Bhavan.