Brazil, France to set up binational conservation unit in Amazon
During his first day visiting Brazil on Tuesday (Mar. 26), President Emmanuel Macron emphasized, in the presence of President Lula, the two governments' plans to establish a binational conservation unit spanning Brazil and French Guiana—the French overseas territory bordering the Brazilian state of Amapá.
The unit would serve as a reference center for scientific research aimed at sustainable development. President Macron announced that both countries will invest $2 billion in the project.
In a statement titled "Brazil-France Call for Climate Ambition from Paris to Belém and Beyond," the countries expressed their joint commitment to combating deforestation, protecting the Amazon, restoring and sustainably managing tropical forests, and developing the bioeconomy, which includes exploring "innovative financing mechanisms."
Upon arriving in Belém, Lula and Macron boarded a Navy boat to Combu Island, situated on the south bank of the Guamá River. The journey involved crossing the river and navigating through a network of streams, allowing the two leaders to observe the preserved Amazon rainforest. During their visit, they witnessed a demonstration of the region's artisanal cocoa and chocolate production.
In Combu, Chief Raoni Metuktire, a prominent leader of the Kayapó people and one of the most internationally recognized indigenous representatives, was honored by President Macron with the Knight of the French Legion of Honour award.
"Dear Raoni, this moment is dedicated to you. You've visited France several times, and I promised to come here, to your forest, to stand with you. This forest, so coveted yet defended by you for decades. Today, President Lula and I stand united with one of our friends," Macron said in a speech before presenting the medal to the indigenous chief.
On the next leg of the trip, Lula and Macron will inaugurate the new Brazilian submarine on Wednesday morning (27) built at the Itaguaí Naval Complex. This submarine was constructed through a technological cooperation agreement with France.
