Brasília served as the venue for a significant diplomatic dialogue as Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva hosted Prime Minister Fumio Kishida of Japan, marking the latter’s inaugural visit to Latin America’s largest country. The assembly underscored an advancing rapport between the two nations, with a particular emphasis on economic and environmental collaboration.
During their discourse, President Lula seized the opportunity to champion Brazilian beef, advocating for Japan to augment its imports from Brazil—a topic persistently broached since 2005. Lula playfully suggested that Kishida experience Brazilian steak in São Paulo firsthand to appreciate the superior quality and affordability of their offerings.
“Our meat is cheaper and of better quality than the meat you buy. I don’t even know the price, but I’m sure ours is cheaper, and of extreme quality,” Lula declared, positioning Brazil as a formidable competitor against other leading beef exporters like the U.S. and Australia.
Significant advancements in Brazil’s beef exportation were highlighted, with 50 countries removing restrictions since Lula’s 2023 inauguration. Brazil retains its status as the preeminent global beef exporter. Eduardo Paes Saboia, Secretary for Asia and Pacific at Brazil’s foreign affairs ministry, stressed the notable improvements in the sanitary conditions within Brazil’s cattle industry.
Discussions transcended trade concerns, addressing the pressing environmental degradation challenges facing Brazil. Japan pledged support for Brazilian initiatives aimed at rehabilitating the Cerrado’s degraded areas. Prime Minister Kishida underscored the potential for bilateral collaboration in tackling global environmental issues, mentioning Japan’s recent monetary contribution to Brazil’s Amazon protection fund.
The visit also spotlighted the enduring cultural connections, as Brazil hosts the largest community of Japanese expatriates outside Japan. Kishida’s schedule includes further engagements with the Japanese diaspora, reflecting the profound socio-cultural ties that enhance the strategic bonds being strengthened.
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