Brazilian President: 'Together we overcome all challenges and become the driving force for a better future'

President Luong Cuong presided over the state-level welcoming ceremony for Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva on the morning of March 28. (Photo: Quang Hoa)

Not just a diplomatic phrase

In 2024, we will not only celebrate the 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations, but also elevate this relationship to a new level: Since November 2024, Brazil and Vietnam have officially become Strategic Partners.

This is not just a diplomatic phrase but the result of a sustainable cooperation process, bringing practical benefits to both countries.

Since my first visit to Vietnam, bilateral trade has increased from $534 million in 2008 to nearly $7.7 billion in 2024.

Today, Brazil imports more from Vietnam than some of its long-standing partners such as Portugal, France and the UK. We are proud to be Vietnam's largest trading partner in Latin America and a major supplier of pork, chicken and cotton, contributing to food security and the development of Vietnam's textile and garment industry.

Brazil can contribute much more.

By 2024, our economic growth rate will be significantly higher than the average of developed countries. Brazil's legal and policy framework creates a safe business environment for investment and trade.

Expanding exports of higher value-added products to Vietnam will help us reach the target of bilateral trade turnover of 15 billion USD by 2030.

We are ready to provide modern aircraft for Vietnam's civil aviation industry as well as cooperate in the field of advanced and modern defense equipment.

In addition, the two countries have great potential for cooperation in the fields of science, technology, innovation and renewable energy.

Brazil is keen to cooperate with Vietnam in the development of semiconductors, artificial intelligence and digital technology. We have decades of experience in the production of biofuels – a clean energy solution for the automotive, aviation, shipping and even power generation industries.

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva shares his joy on his second visit to Vietnam. (Photo: Hoang Hai)

Strong commitment to multilateralism

Strengthening bilateral relations is a necessary step in the context of profound changes in the world.

Latin America and Southeast Asia are dynamic regions, contributing to building a multipolar world order.

The GDP of MERCOSUR and ASEAN – 2.8 trillion USD and 3.8 trillion USD respectively – shows the importance of these two blocs on the international stage.

In uncertain times, we must work together to ensure that a multipolar world is built on fair rules and institutions, rather than the division of influence by major powers. History has shown that the path of independence is the only way to bring prosperity to our people.

Brazil's strong commitment to multilateralism has prompted us to actively participate in international forums.

We look forward to receiving Vietnam's support during Brazil's BRICS and COP30 Presidency this year.

Vietnam has a strong voice in the Global South, an important partner in the common effort to promote more representative governance and better respond to the interests of developing countries.

By hosting the upcoming major international events, Brazil hopes to build on the successes of its recently concluded G20 Presidency. Vietnam participated in working group meetings and the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro, and was one of the earliest supporters of the Global Alliance Against Poverty, which Brazil proposed.

In Vietnam, when you want to show concern for someone, you often ask them if they have eaten yet. In Brazil, when you want to show concern, Brazilians will cook for each other. Cuisine is an important part of both countries' cultures, just as food security is a top priority for both governments.

In their efforts to lift millions of people out of poverty over the past decades, Brazil and Vietnam can share valuable lessons with the world.

Together, we can overcome any challenge and become the driving force for a better future.

Source: https://baoquocte.vn/tong-thong-brazil-cung-nhau-chung-ta-vuot-qua-moi-thach-thuc-va-tro-thanh-mot-luc-cho-tuong-fui-better-dep-hon-309117.html