Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Chinese President Xi Jinping held a one-hour telephone discussion on August 11, reinforcing what both leaders described as the strongest period in Brazil-China relations. Their conversation focused on BRICS cooperation, preparations for the UN COP-30 climate conference in Belem, and expanding bilateral trade in key sectors.
“I reiterated the important role that China plays in the successful conduct of the COP-30,” Lula said, adding that Xi pledged to send a high-level delegation and work “closely with Brazil to ensure the success of the event.”
Both leaders highlighted progress in healthcare, oil and gas, the digital economy, and satellite technology partnerships. Xi described the relationship as “at their best in history” and noted the formation of a “Chinese-Brazilian community with a shared destiny.”
Shared Stance on Multilateralism and Trade
According to Brazil’s presidency, the two leaders reaffirmed the role of BRICS and the G20 in defending multilateralism and agreed to explore new business opportunities between the two largest economies in the Global South. Xi called BRICS “a key platform for building consensus” and pledged to work with Brazil to set an example of “unity and self-reliance” among emerging nations.
The discussion also touched on US trade policy. Lula has signaled his intention to address US President Donald Trump’s recent tariff threats with BRICS partners. China, for its part, expressed support for Brazil in resisting what it termed “bullying behaviour” in the form of excessive tariffs.
Agriculture and Market Access
Agricultural trade remains a cornerstone of the relationship. China is the world’s largest soybean importer and relies heavily on Brazilian supply. Recently, Brazilian coffee exporters have gained access to the Chinese market, benefiting from diversification after US tariffs impacted the industry.
On the same day, Brazil’s Minister of Integration and Regional Development Waldez Goes and China’s Deputy Head of the National Development and Reform Commission Wang Changlin signed a memorandum of understanding to enhance cooperation in regional development.
With COP-30 preparations underway and trade ties deepening, both Lula and Xi signaled a commitment to shaping a more united Global South capable of addressing shared global challenges.
