Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva was hospitalized in Brasília after sustaining a head injury from an accident at home on Saturday.
The 78-year-old president suffered a bruise on the occipital region of his head and a cut above the neck, prompting medical advice to avoid long-haul flights.
The incident led to the cancellation of his planned trip to the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, scheduled for October 22-24.
However, President Lula da Silva will participate in the summit via video conference from Brasília, ensuring his continued involvement in key discussions.
The president’s medical team confirmed that he is able to carry out all activities except long-haul air travel.
This precautionary measure comes after Lula da Silva underwent hip surgery in 2023. His 79th birthday is October 27.
The BRICS bloc, originally comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, has expanded to include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates.
Moscow aims to establish BRICS as a counterbalance to Western influence, promoting a “multipolar” world with rising powers like China and India.
Despite expansion plans, the United States remains sceptical about BRICS’ potential as a geopolitical rival.
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