The national flags of Brazil and China are seen at the Peace Hotel in Shanghai, April 13, 2023. /CFP
Editor's note: Alessandro Golombiewski Teixeira is a former Brazilian minister of tourism and former special economic advisor to the president of Brazil. The article reflects the author's opinions, and not necessarily those of CGTN.
Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva's visit to China has marked a significant milestone in the ever-evolving China-Brazil relationship. This historic event has opened new avenues for collaboration and mutual growth in various sectors, including economic development, technology innovation, information and communication technology, space exploration, culture, tourism, sports, agriculture and food security, health, urban construction, and so on. This memorable trip has provided incredible results that are worth examining and that have the potential to be game changers in China-Brazil relations.
China and Brazil have long been important trade partners, with commodities playing a central role in their economic relationship. During President Lula's visit, the two countries signed numerous agreements to expand their collaboration in economic development and trade. The most important one is the Memorandum of Understanding on the Trade Facilitation that will help Chinese and Brazilian companies to increase trade and reduce the "red tape." These developments will not only strengthen the economic ties between China and Brazil but also contribute to the growth and stability of both economies.
Furthermore, by working together in the realm of trade, China and Brazil can jointly address global challenges such as trade imbalances, protectionism, and unequal distribution of wealth. This collaboration has the potential to create a more equitable and sustainable global trade system that benefits all nations.
China and Brazil have a strong history of cooperation in science and technology, which has been further bolstered during President Lula's visit. Several key agreements and joint projects were discussed, focusing on technology innovation, information and communication technology, and space exploration. These advancements in science and technology cooperation will not only benefit Brazil and China but also contribute to global progress in various sectors. A good example in this field is the signing of an agreement for the countries to build and coordinate a new satellite together. The forecast is that the new CBERS-6 satellite will be launched in 2028. Each country must invest $50 million.
During President Lula's visit, both countries agreed to enhance cooperation in tourism and sports, further solidifying their cultural ties. Additionally, agriculture and food security were emphasized as crucial components of the China-Brazil relationship. Collaborative initiatives were announced, aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability. The outcomes of these initiatives will likely benefit both countries' agricultural sectors by promoting innovation, increasing efficiency, and ensuring food security.
This cooperation also has the potential to influence global food security by sharing best practices and innovative solutions in agriculture. As two major players in the global agricultural landscape, China and Brazil can play a significant role in addressing food security challenges and promoting sustainable agricultural practices worldwide.
Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva went to Tian'anmen Square to lay a wreath at the Monument to the People's Heroes, April 14, 2023. /CFP
China and Brazil have identified health and urban construction as areas for further collaboration, recognizing their importance in improving the quality of life for their citizens. Additionally, the two countries decided to launch an interdepartmental dialogue on international development and humanitarian cooperation, with the potential to broaden their mutual understanding and coordinate their positions on multilateral forums.
China and Brazil agreed to deepen legislative exchange and regional cooperation, enhancing communication between their legislative institutions, specialized committees, and friendship groups. This will help foster greater understanding and cooperation on a political level, promoting a stable and mutually beneficial relationship.
The importance of dialogue between businesses in both countries was acknowledged, with the aim of encouraging new partnerships and fostering economic growth. China is clearly committed to the Brazilian project of re-industrialization using the Belt and Road Initiative as one of the mechanisms and working together for a more multilateral world.
In summary, President Lula's visit to China signifies a pivotal moment in China-Brazil relations, with a broad range of collaborative initiatives spanning various sectors. These developments will not only foster mutual growth and prosperity but also contribute to the broader goals of global cooperation and sustainable development. The tangible outcomes of this historic visit will undoubtedly have far-reaching implications for both countries, as well as the global community.
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