In 2014, China and Brazil embarked on a monumental journey by signing a cooperation agreement for the Belo Monte Ultra High Voltage (UHV) transmission project. This mega-project spans over 2,000 kilometers, cutting through Brazil’s lush tropical rainforests and coursing over expansive rivers.
Dubbed the “electricity expressway,” the project connects the northern and southern regions of Brazil, delivering reliable hydropower to industrial hubs and illuminating the lives of over 22 million Brazilians—approximately 10 percent of the country’s population. By bridging the energy divide, it has played a pivotal role in bolstering Brazil’s economic development and improving the quality of life for millions.
To date, the Belo Monte project has transmitted an astounding 180 terawatt-hours of hydropower. This achievement equates to saving 64 million tonnes of standard coal or reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 170 million tonnes, marking a significant stride in Brazil’s energy transition and commitment to sustainability.
“China is actively involved in Brazil’s ongoing energy transition,” stated Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva in an interview with China Media Group. His sentiments reflect a growing partnership between the two nations, deeply rooted in mutual goals of sustainable development and environmental stewardship.
During discussions with President Lula on Wednesday in Brasília, Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed China’s readiness to work with Brazil as “golden partners” who support each other’s success. He emphasized the shared aspiration to build a community with a shared future for mankind, underscoring the importance of collaboration in addressing global challenges.
Elevating their bilateral relationship, China and Brazil have agreed to align the Belt and Road Initiative with Brazil’s development strategies. This alignment signifies a commitment to a more just world and a more sustainable planet, fostering a China-Brazil community that is geared towards common prosperity and environmental responsibility.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
