President Lula of Brazil attended the Brazil-Chile Business Forum in Brasília with Chilian President Boric. The event aimed to strengthen trade relations, generating benefits for both countries while focusing on mutual respect for sovereignty. Leaders emphasized economic growth, social policies, and significant trade figures during their discussions.
On April 22, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva participated in the Brazil-Chile Business Forum in Brasília, alongside Chilean President Gabriel Boric. The event was held at the National Confederation of Industry (CNI) and was organized to enhance dialogue between Brazilian and Chilean business leaders. This gathering aimed to bolster trade relations and promote cooperation across various sectors.
Lula expressed a clear desire for productive business relations, emphasizing that both countries should benefit mutually. He remarked, “A good deal is one where both countries profit.” The President insisted on respecting each nation’s sovereign interests while striving for enhanced exchanges that could lead to better access to technology and improved living standards for citizens in both countries.
In his remarks, Lula highlighted how effective social policies can elevate the population’s quality of life, which then boosts the economy and tourism. He mentioned a recent income growth of 10.7% among the poorest Brazilians over the past two years, suggesting that increased disposable income translates to more Brazilian tourists traveling to Chile, thus stimulating economic activity.
Chilean President Boric also spoke, commending the solid relationship between the two nations, identifying Brazil as Chile’s third-largest trading partner after China and the U.S. He pointed out that Chile serves as a more significant trading partner to Brazil than the UK or France. The basis for this strong connection was explored in their talks.
A significant topic was the South American Integration Routes project, featuring the Capricorn Bioceanic Route. This infrastructure will link Brazilian ports with Chilean ports, covering a distance of 2,400 kilometers. Boric mentioned that this project signifies tangible regional cooperation and aims for completion by 2026, during Lula’s current presidency.
Mario Cezar de Aguiar, Vice President of the CNI, emphasized the importance of collaboration and thanked the leaders for their engagement. He stated that through unity between business sectors and public policies, Brazil and Chile could face global uncertainties and build a sustainable future.
At the forum, Rosario Navarro, President of the Chilean Society of Industrial Promotion, noted this as an opportunity for deeper integration between the two countries. She emphasized having the necessary capabilities and a shared vision, urging the need for effective action.
In conjunction with this official visit, Lula and Boric signed 13 agreements covering various fields, including public security, defense, science and technology, and agriculture. This move underscores the ongoing dynamism in Brazil-Chile relations, which span trade, investments, and political coordination.
The trade figures tell a promising story—between January and March 2025, total trade reached USD 2.7 billion, marked by Brazilian exports of USD 1.56 billion and imports of USD 1.21 billion. Notably, Brazilian commodities such as oil, meat, and automobiles topped the export list, while Chilean imports included salmon and wine.
Ultimately, Chile stands as a key ally for Brazil in South America, both nations seeing the value in regional economic integration initiatives. There exist compelling prospects for collaboration in areas like science, technology, and beyond, aiming for progressive partnerships that benefit citizens of both nations.
The Brazil-Chile Business Forum signified a critical step in enhancing trade relations between the two countries, with both leaders advocating for mutual benefits and respect for sovereignty. With recent agreements, growing trade figures, and significant infrastructure projects on the horizon, Brazil and Chile are poised for strengthened cooperation across various sectors. Clearly, these partnerships aim to create more integrated and prosperous economies.
Original Source: www.gov.br
