President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has reaffirmed Brazil’s commitment to global leadership in democracy, energy transition, and investment attraction, announcing plans to host two major international events in 2025: the BRICS summit and the 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30). The announcement was made during a press conference at the Palácio do Planalto, as reported by the Brazilian government’s press service.
Lula da Silva emphasized the significance of these gatherings, stating that Brazil aims to build on the success of its G20 presidency in 2023. “I am not being humble when I tell you that we held the most important G20 in history. Now we will repeat this with the largest BRICS and hold the best ever COP in the heart of the Amazon,” he declared.
Focus on Climate and Indigenous Communities
COP30, set to take place in Belém, will serve as a crucial platform to address climate change while also shedding light on the lives and challenges faced by indigenous communities in the Amazon region. Lula da Silva underscored the importance of using this conference to highlight both environmental concerns and the socio-economic realities of the region’s native populations.
Expanding Global Trade and Fighting Hunger
The Brazilian leader also highlighted the country’s recent trade achievements, revealing that over the past two years, Brazil has successfully opened more than 300 new agricultural markets worldwide. Additionally, he announced the first major event of the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty, an initiative launched under Brazil’s G20 presidency.
As part of this initiative, a key meeting of African agriculture ministers will be held in May. “We will hold a meeting to showcase what we are doing well in the fight against hunger in Brazil, take them to the field to see what is happening, and organise a technical meeting coordinated by the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to transfer some of our knowledge to our African partners,” Lula da Silva explained.
Tax Reform to Boost Foreign Investment
During the press conference, the president also highlighted Brazil’s recently adopted tax reform, which is expected to enhance the country’s appeal to foreign investors. The new tax legislation, set to take effect in 2027, is designed to simplify the tax system and create a more business-friendly environment.
Brazil’s Growing Role in Global Affairs
On January 1, 2025, Brazil assumed the BRICS Chairmanship, further solidifying its influence on the international stage. This follows the country’s leadership of the G20 in 2023, which culminated in a high-profile summit in Rio de Janeiro. One of the major outcomes of the G20 summit was the launch of the Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty, a testament to Brazil’s efforts in addressing global inequalities.
Brazil plays a crucial geopolitical role in BRICS by serving as a bridge connecting the Global South and important emerging economies, promoting alternative business alliances, and lowering reliance on Western financial institutions. Brazil, a prominent member of BRICS, promotes a multipolar global order by calling for equitable trade, climate action, and increased participation of developing countries in international decision-making. With the BRICS summit and COP30 on the horizon, Brazil is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping global discussions on economic cooperation and climate action in the coming year.
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