Brazil's Strategic Decision: Weighing the Benefits of China's Belt and Road Initiative

Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva announced that China is interested in discussing its Belt and Road Initiative with Brazil. He plans to attend an APEC meeting in Peru to deliberate the potential benefits for Brazil. Lula emphasizes understanding the advantages before joining.

SAO JOSE DOS CAMPOS, Brazil, July 19 (Reuters) - Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva stated on Friday that China is keen to have discussions about its Belt and Road Initiative with Brazil. He noted that Brazil will carefully evaluate the potential benefits of joining the initiative.

During an event in Sao Paulo state, Lula revealed plans to attend an upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meeting in Peru later this year. Although Brazil is not a member of APEC, Lula aims to use this opportunity to engage with China regarding the Belt and Road Initiative.

'China wants to discuss the New Silk Road, so we will have to prepare a proposal to discuss it,' Lula said. 'What's in it for us? What does Brazil gain if we take part in it?'

(With inputs from agencies.)