Lula's trip to Chile to focus on diversifying partnerships

President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva will embark on a state visit to Chile, where he is anticipated to sign 17 bilateral agreements. This visit aims to broaden the partnership between the two countries, moving beyond trade and enhancing the diversity of Brazilian exports.

The president and his delegation will arrive in Chile on Sunday (Aug. 4). In addition to ministers, advisors, and other federal government officials, approximately 200 Brazilian business leaders are expected to join them in Santiago. They will participate in the Chile-Brazil Business Forum, which will coincide with the presidential visit.

Ambassador Gisela Padovan, Secretary for Latin America and the Caribbean at the Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, noted that the visit symbolizes the renewed diplomatic ties between the two nations following Gabriel Boric's inauguration in March 2022.

“We aim to broaden our bilateral agenda to foster a relationship that extends beyond economic and trade matters. Our focus includes science and technology, democracy and human rights, education, innovation, and health. We have a comprehensive agenda that addresses a wide range of topics,” Padovan stated during a briefing organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to outline the trip.

According to the secretary, Brazil is interested in exploring opportunities with Chile in the defense industry, building on their longstanding partnership in aircraft manufacturing. Additionally, Brazil seeks to expand its agricultural exports to Chile. On the other hand, Chile is keen to address issues related to security, crime prevention, natural disaster risks, and cybersecurity.

“We intend to transform the region from a mere exporter of commodities into one that also creates quality jobs and benefits,” she said. She also emphasized the alignment between Lula and Boric on key global issues, including democracy, regional integration, environmental protection, human rights, social inclusion, and the situation in Palestine. “These are issues on the international agenda where there is a convergence of visions, so the political dialogue will be crucial,” she added.

Diplomatic relations

Brazil and Chile have shared 188 years of diplomatic relations, supported by over 90 active bilateral agreements. Brazil ranks as Chile’s third-largest trading partner and stands as the top destination for Chilean investment globally. This investment spans various sectors, including pulp, retail, and energy, with the airline Latam being the largest Chilean company operating in Brazil.

Conversely, Chile is the sixth-largest destination for Brazilian exports, while Brazil is the leading Latin American investor in Chile. The annual trade volume between the two nations totals $12 billion.