During a conversation on Monday, China’s leader Xi Jinping expressed support for Brazil’s President Lula da Silva, specifically regarding Brazil’s “state sovereignty” in trade negotiations with the United States.
Xi also agreed to assist Lula in forming a global coalition aimed at addressing unilateral protectionist measures. Although the discussion was relayed through China’s state news agency, it notably did not mention Trump or the U.S. directly. Xinhua reported that Lula briefed Xi on Brazil’s current relations with the U.S. and emphasized Brazil’s firm commitment to protecting its sovereignty.
The call took place at a time that was Tuesday morning in Beijing, but it was Monday night for Lula. Recently, Lula publicized his disinterest in in-person discussions about trade mediation. Instead, he appears to be leaning toward engaging more with China to help stabilize the deteriorating U.S.-Brazil relations.
Traditionally, the relationship between America and Brazil has been quite friendly, but tensions have surfaced lately, particularly because Lula hasn’t effectively communicated with the White House on trade issues. In April, Trump announced a significant restructuring of U.S. trade relations with various partners, Brazil included, warning of new tariffs if agreements weren’t favorable for the U.S.
Trump has also praised the tariff threat, which serves as pressure on Brazil to ensure human rights are honored, criticizing Lula’s support for judicial actions against conservative figures, including former President Jair Bolsonaro.
As a consequence of these judicial actions aimed at stifling Bolsonaro and other conservatives, Trump labeled Brazil a national security threat to the U.S. Last week, he enacted an executive order imposing 50% tariffs and backed Brazil’s judiciary to take action against Bolsonaro.
In the context of Brazil’s sovereignty concerns, Xi suggested that the Chinese Communist Party was ready to collaborate with Brazil to showcase unity among major nations in the global South.
Reportedly, Xi stated, “The China-Brazil relationship is the best in history,” and voiced China’s willingness to cooperate with Brazil for mutual benefits.
Additionally, Xi expressed support for Brazil in defending its sovereignty and rights. Lula, for his part, acknowledged China’s positive role in international matters, advancing cooperation within BRICS, which includes Russia, India, and South Africa.
Lula later commented on social media about the lengthy phone call, which lasted nearly an hour.
However, Lula did not focus on what some termed “one-sided” discussions. He mentioned topics such as the ongoing war in Ukraine, BRICS collaboration, and the upcoming COP30 UN climate meeting hosted by Brazil.
In terms of bilateral strategic relationships, Lula pointed out the progress made and the commitment to broaden cooperation in various sectors including health, oil, gas, digital economy, and satellites.
Even though Brazil relies heavily on U.S. trade, it has aligned itself more closely with China, which is now its largest trading partner. Lula seems to be steering much of Brazil’s market towards China to mitigate the fallout from U.S. relations. Reports from Brazilian news outlets indicate that from January to July, exports to China exceeded $57.6 billion, while imports were at $41.7 billion, placing Brazil in a unique position of trade surplus with China, particularly in agricultural exports like soybeans.
Concerns about the U.S. relationship worsening have also been reported. Sources suggest Lula has instructed his trade offices to consider tariffs that could soon be levied against the U.S. However, the Brazilian business community appears resistant to engaging in a trade war, fearing negative repercussions for their economy.
Lula has been cautious about personally engaging with Trump. When asked about trade talks, he emphasized a focus on climate change instead. He remarked, “I’m not going to call Trump to do business, no; I want to discuss climate issues.” He indicated he would rather speak to Xi, Prime Minister Modi of India, and mentioned his inability to reach out to Putin due to travel restrictions.
The Chinese government welcomed Lula’s initiative to involve China in U.S. trade matters. Recently, Chinese official Wang Yi spoke with Lula’s advisor, Celso Amorim, expressing Beijing’s support for Brazil’s situation.
Wang noted, “Under the strategic direction of President Xi Jinping and Lula, China and Brazil are working toward strengthening their shared future for a more just world and sustainable planet,” emphasizing China’s support for Brazil in its developmental pursuits against what it views as abusive tariffs.
