China and Brazil have forged a strong partnership over the past five decades. Brazil was the first country in Latin America to establish a strategic partnership with China and later elevated it to a comprehensive strategic partnership. Xi Jinping highlighted the achievements of this relationship, which has grown in strength through economic collaboration, political trust, and cultural exchanges. He described it as a “model for major developing countries to develop win-win cooperation and pursue a shared future.”
China has been Brazil’s largest trading partner for 15 consecutive years. Trade between the two nations has expanded significantly, with Brazil exporting soybeans, iron ore, and beef, while importing machinery and high-tech products from China. The annual value of Chinese imports from Brazil has consistently exceeded $100 billion over the past three years. Both nations have sought to diversify trade, broadening cooperation into areas such as infrastructure development, green energy, and technological innovation.
The visit also reflects the broader role of China and Brazil within the Global South. The two nations have often worked together to advocate for the interests of developing countries. In international forums such as BRICS, the United Nations, and the G20, they have called for reforms to create a more equitable global governance system. Earlier this year, they issued a joint statement promoting a political resolution to the Ukraine crisis, reinforcing their commitment to peace and multilateralism.
Xi Jinping attended the G20 Summit on 18 November 2024, where he delivered a speech titled “Building a Just World of Common Development.” He called for the G20 to prioritise development and promote greater equity in international economic cooperation. He emphasised the need to reform institutions such as the International Monetary Fund and the World Trade Organization to better represent the Global South. He also stressed the importance of creating an inclusive global economy by addressing issues such as poverty, inequality, and climate change.
Brazil, as the host of this year’s summit, selected the theme “Building a Just World and a Sustainable Planet.” President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva placed the fight against hunger and poverty high on the agenda, proposing the creation of a Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty. Xi Jinping expressed his support for this initiative, calling it a vital step toward achieving global equity and sustainable development. He also pledged China’s continued support for developing nations, highlighting the importance of multilateral efforts to address shared challenges.
China presented several proposals during the summit to support global development. These included advancing high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, supporting poverty reduction through targeted initiatives, and promoting green and digital development. Xi Jinping also reaffirmed China’s commitment to providing zero-tariff treatment for goods from the least developed countries with diplomatic relations with China. These measures reflect China’s broader strategy of strengthening partnerships with nations in the Global South.
Xi Jinping’s remarks at the summit pointed out importance of international cooperation in addressing global challenges. He emphasised that China’s own experience in poverty alleviation, which lifted 800 million people out of poverty, could serve as a model for other developing countries. He noted that the success of these efforts was rooted in targeted policies, economic growth, and sustained commitment. “If China can make it, other developing countries can make it too,” he stated.
The cultural and people-to-people exchanges between China and Brazil have also played a crucial role in strengthening their bilateral relationship. Events marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties have highlighted the mutual appreciation of each other’s cultures. Brazilian music, dance, and cuisine have gained popularity in China, while traditional Chinese festivals and practices are increasingly embraced in Brazil. These exchanges have fostered greater understanding and goodwill between the two nations.
During his visit, Xi Jinping expressed his hope for deeper cooperation between China and Brazil across various fields. He stressed the need to align the two nations’ development strategies and to explore new areas of collaboration. The discussions included plans to enhance cooperation in areas such as renewable energy, technological innovation, and infrastructure development. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening strategic mutual trust and advancing the China-Brazil comprehensive strategic partnership.
The G20 Summit also highlighted the growing influence of the Global South in international affairs. For the first time, the African Union participated as a full member of the G20, marking a significant milestone. Xi Jinping and Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva expressed their support for increasing the representation of developing nations in global decision-making processes. They also called for greater solidarity among countries in the Global South to address shared challenges such as poverty, inequality, and climate change.
Observers praised the outcomes of the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro, noting the emphasis on dialogue and multilateralism. Leaders from across the world discussed pressing global issues, including economic recovery, food security, and environmental sustainability. The summit also provided an opportunity for China and Brazil to showcase their leadership in promoting the interests of the Global South.
HT
