Chinese Ambassador to Brazil Advocates Belt and Road Initiative, Seeking Elevated Bilateral Relations

24 Oct, 2023

Chinese Ambassador to Brazil Advocates Belt and Road Initiative, Seeking Elevated Bilateral Relations

In a notable development, China's ambassador to Brazil publicly extended an invitation to Brasilia, urging them to consider becoming a part of the Belt and Road Initiative, emphasizing the goal of elevating bilateral relations through this signature Beijing-centered global trade network.

This appeal was made during the annual meeting of the China-Brazil Business Council in São Paulo, where Ambassador Zhu Qingqiao outlined several compelling advantages for South America's largest economy in becoming an official member of this global strategic initiative. The Belt and Road Initiative, often referred to as the BRI, is a significant infrastructure and economic development project led by China, aimed at promoting global trade and cooperation.

China envisions leveraging the Belt and Road programs to facilitate the integration of port services, establish pilot zones for e-commerce collaboration, and expand market access for digital trade. This strategy aligns with the modernization and diversification of trade and economic relations.

Ambassador Zhu expressed the intent to create multilateral cooperation platforms with partner countries in various sectors over the next five years. These sectors include energy, taxation, finance, green development, disaster mitigation strategies, think tanks, media, culture, and other areas. This multifaceted approach underlines China's commitment to fostering a wide-ranging and robust collaboration with Brazil and other nations.

While Brazil had contemplated membership in the Belt and Road Initiative, this consideration occurred in the lead-up to President Luis Inacio Lula da Silva's state visit to Beijing in April to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Ultimately, Brazil decided against joining the initiative, a decision made known by individuals familiar with the matter. Nevertheless, the recent call by China's ambassador demonstrates the continued interest in enhancing cooperation and strengthening ties between the two countries through this ambitious global project.