In a recent signed article published in the Brazilian newspaper Folha de S. Paulo, President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China emphasized the deepening friendship and cooperation between China and Brazil. As he prepares for a state visit to Brazil and attendance at the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Rio de Janeiro, President Xi highlighted the historical and future significance of the bilateral relationship.
A Half-Century of Diplomatic Relations
This year marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and Brazil. President Xi reflected on the robust growth of relations over the past five decades, noting that the partnership has “withstood the test of a changing international landscape and become increasingly mature and vibrant.” He highlighted the mutual respect and equality that underpin the relationship, emphasizing that both nations support each other’s choice of development path.
Economic Synergy and Mutual Growth
President Xi underscored the significant economic collaboration between the two countries. China has been Brazil’s largest trading partner for 15 consecutive years and is a major source of foreign investment. With annual imports from Brazil exceeding $100 billion in recent years, the trade structure is becoming more optimized, and cooperation is expanding into areas like agriculture, infrastructure, energy, green development, technological innovation, and finance. This mutually beneficial cooperation has “greatly promoted the economic and social progress in both countries,” according to President Xi.
Cultural Exchanges and People-to-People Bonds
The article also highlighted the rich cultural ties between China and Brazil. President Xi noted that cultural exchanges, including music, dance, cuisine, and sports, have become “a new bridge connecting the people of our two countries.” He mentioned the popularity of Brazilian cultural elements like capybaras, bossa nova, samba, and Capoeira in China, as well as the growing recognition of Chinese festivals and traditional medicine in Brazil. These exchanges enhance mutual understanding and foster deeper friendship between the peoples.
Working Together on the Global Stage
President Xi emphasized the shared commitment of China and Brazil to peace, development, fairness, and justice. He highlighted the close coordination between the two countries within international organizations like the United Nations, G20, and BRICS. The joint initiative on the political settlement of the Ukraine crisis was mentioned as an example of their collaborative efforts contributing positive energy to global peace and stability.
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, President Xi called for even stronger ties between China and Brazil. He urged both countries to “stay the course of friendly relations,” foster new growth drivers for cooperation, solidify people-to-people friendships, and strengthen solidarity on global issues. As major developing countries, he emphasized their responsibility to contribute to a multipolar world and a more equitable global governance system.
Anticipation for the G20 Summit
President Xi expressed confidence in the upcoming G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro, praising Brazil’s role in establishing the summit theme “Building a Just World and a Sustainable Planet.” He highlighted the importance of placing development at the center of G20 cooperation and addressing global challenges through collaboration. He also supported President Lula’s initiative to establish a Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty.
“I am confident that the Rio Summit will achieve fruitful outcomes and leave a distinct Brazilian mark on the G20’s history,” President Xi stated. He looked forward to working with President Lula to “usher in a new ‘golden 50 years’ for China-Brazil relations” and to promote a more just and sustainable world.
Reference(s):
Full text of President Xi Jinping's signed article in Brazilian media
cgtn.com
