Brazilian President Lula seeks cooperation with Japan on climate change, emphasizing the role of Japanese technology as Brazil prepares to host COP30. He calls for increased trade, particularly for Brazilian beef, while criticizing past U.S. policies affecting climate initiatives.
On March 18, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva expressed optimism regarding collaboration with Japan in addressing climate change, especially as Brazil prepares to chair the COP30 climate conference later this year. He emphasized the importance of leveraging Japanese science and technology to develop solutions for climate-related challenges. The conference is scheduled for November in Belem, near the Amazon River’s mouth.
Lula highlighted that 2023 marks the 130th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and Brazil, coinciding with his upcoming four-day state visit to Japan. During his discussions, Lula noted that trade between the two countries remains limited, urging an expansion of trade relations, particularly advocating for the lifting of Japan’s effective ban on Brazilian beef imports.
According to Lula, the current trade volume between Brazil and Japan approximates $12 billion annually, representing less than 10 percent of Brazil’s trade with China, which is significantly higher. He also criticized former U.S. President Donald Trump’s diplomatic policies, particularly the withdrawal from the Paris Agreement, which he deemed detrimental to global climate efforts.
In summary, President Lula’s remarks underscore the potential for enhanced cooperation between Brazil and Japan in combating climate change, particularly through scientific and technological exchanges. With the upcoming COP30 conference providing a platform for dialogue, Lula’s advocacy for improved trade relations indicates a desire to strengthen bilateral ties amidst global challenges.
Original Source: jen.jiji.com
