Brazil Explores Strategic Partnership with China Amid Diplomatic Balancing Act

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva plans to discuss a 'long-term strategic partnership' with China during a meeting with Xi Jinping later this year. Though open to joining China's Belt and Road Initiative, Lula emphasized maintaining strong ties with both China and the United States.

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva announced on Wednesday his intention to forge a 'long-term strategic partnership' with China during an upcoming meeting with President Xi Jinping in Brazil.

Lula disclosed at an event that China, Brazil's leading trade partner, is looking to engage in discussions about its Belt and Road Initiative with the South American nation. He indicated Brazil's openness to participate in the initiative. Xi is expected to visit Brasilia for a state visit following the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro this November.

However, Lula insisted that strengthening ties with China should not come at the expense of Brazil's relationship with the United States, the two largest democracies in the Western Hemisphere. 'We want our economy to be stronger than ever, so we need to find partners,' Lula stated. 'Do not think that I want to pick a fight with the U.S. On the contrary, I want the U.S. on our side as much as I want China.'

Both Brazil and China are members of the BRICS group of emerging economies. Lula also revealed plans to visit Japan in March 2025 as part of his administration's efforts to enhance diplomatic connections.

(With inputs from agencies.)