President Lula and President Boric met at the Brazil–Chile Business Forum to enhance trade relations and signed 13 agreements. Both leaders emphasized the importance of mutual profit in business dealings and highlighted ongoing regional integration projects, signaling a commitment to a prosperous partnership.
On April 22, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva marked the conclusion of the Brazil–Chile Business Forum in Brasília, sharing the platform with Chilean President Gabriel Boric. Hosted at the National Confederation of Industry (CNI), the event aimed to encourage discussions among business leaders from Brazil and Chile, focusing on enhancing bilateral trade relations across varied sectors.
Lula emphasized that effective deals are characterized by mutual benefit, stating, “A President of the Republic, such as Boric and myself, we do not do business. What we do is open the doors so that business people — who know how to do business — can do business. But I want the Chilean and Brazilian business people to know that good business is when both countries profit.” This statement underpins the idea that cooperation is essential for prosperity.
The Brazilian leader reiterated their desire for trade relations that respect each nation’s sovereignty. He expressed, “We do not want a cold war. We want to prioritize the sovereign interests of our peoples, who want to live well, who want to have access to science and technology,” highlighting goals that extend beyond mere economic exchanges.
In the closing remarks, Lula pointed to the importance of social policies in enhancing quality of life, thereby boosting economies, including tourism. “Over the past two years the poorest have had an income growth of 10.7%. This is what will make more Brazilian tourists visit Chile,” he noted, suggesting that economic vitality spurs travel.
Chilean President Boric also stressed the significance of securing investor confidence and fostering economic growth, declaring that Brazil stands as Chile’s third-largest trading partner. “Today, I am pleased to confirm that our trade relationship is at an excellent moment,” he remarked, emphasizing the robust bonding these two nations share.
Further, Boric unveiled plans for the South American Integration Routes project, which he said would exemplify regional integration. He specifically mentioned the Capricorn Bioceanic Route, allowing connection between Brazilian states and ports in Chile, describing it as a state policy aimed at bolstering connectivity completed by 2026.
The vice president of CNI, Mario Cezar de Aguiar, also expressed gratitude for the collaboration between both nations, explaining that addressing global uncertainties would require solid partnerships. “Through dialogue and the union of businesspeople and the public sector, we can build a more prosperous and sustainable future for our countries,” he articulated.
Rosario Navarro, president of the Chilean Society of Industrial Promotion, highlighted the forum’s potential for advancing deeper integration. “We have the capabilities, the drive, and a shared vision,” she emphasized, indicating a readiness to translate visionary discussions into tangible actions.
During the state visit, 13 agreements were finalized covering areas like justice, culture, and technology, showcasing a multifaceted commitment to cooperation. Brazil and Chile maintain dynamic trade relations with steadily growing bilateral investments that have benefited both nations immensely.
The trade statistics are also indicative of this partnership. From January to March 2025, trade hit USD 2.7 billion, with Brazil exporting USD 1.56 billion and importing USD 1.21 billion, yielding a surplus of USD 350 million. Brazilian exports include crude oil and automobiles, while imports from Chile primarily consist of salmon and wine.
In summary, the Brazil-Chile Business Forum not only served as a catalyst for enhancing mutual trading dynamics but also reasserted the intention for both nations to collaborate in addressing broader regional challenges and opportunities. The ongoing dialogue and agreements reflect a strategic partnership with promising prospects for future ventures and regional stability.
The Brazil-Chile Business Forum highlighted significant engagement between the two nations, focusing on deepening trade relations and mutual prosperity. With leaders from both countries emphasizing the importance of cooperation, social policies, and integrated initiatives, they aim to develop a robust economic partnership. The signed agreements and optimistic trade statistics indicate ongoing momentum in bilateral relations, embodying a shared vision for future growth and collaboration.
Original Source: www.gov.br