President Lula and Chilean President Boric addressed the Brazil-Chile Business Forum, emphasizing mutual benefits in trade relationships. They discussed ongoing projects, the importance of social policies, and reinforced the significance of deepening bilateral agreements. The forum concluded with 13 new agreements signed across various sectors and highlighted strong trade figures between the two nations.
On April 22, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, alongside Chilean President Gabriel Boric, attended the closing of the Brazil-Chile Business Forum in Brasília. The event, held at the National Confederation of Industry (CNI), provided a critical venue for business leaders from both nations to engage and explore ways to enhance trade ties. Lula’s remarks emphasized the importance of mutual benefit in trade agreements, stating that both nations must profit for a deal to be deemed successful.
Lula made a strong case for prioritizing the sovereignty of Brazil and Chile, stating, “We do not want a cold war… We want to prioritize the sovereign interests of our peoples.” He articulated the desire for both countries to engage in trade that respects each nation’s needs and encourages better standards of living. The President also highlighted how social policies can spur economic growth, noting that in the past two years, the poorest in Brazil have seen income growth of 10.7%.
During the Forum, Gabriel Boric echoed Lula’s sentiments, expressing confidence in the thriving trade relationship between Chile and Brazil. He pointed out that Brazil ranks as Chile’s third-largest trading partner after China and the United States. Boric noted, “Today… I am pleased to confirm that our trade relationship is at an excellent moment,” drawing attention to the significance of the partnership.
A pivotal discussion was held about the South American Integration Routes project, which includes the Capricorn Bioceanic Route aimed at connecting Brazilian ports with Chilean ports. Boric described this as a key example of regional cooperation, asserting that it will serve as a lasting State policy once completed in 2026.
Mario Cezar de Aguiar, vice president of CNI, expressed gratitude for the leaders’ engagement, reinforcing the need to collaborate to navigate global uncertainties. “With your leadership, we will be able to deepen the enduring and strategic partnership between Brazil and Chile,” Aguiar said, calling for continued dialogue.
Additionally, the Forum culminated in the signing of 13 agreements spanning various sectors such as public security and technology. These collaborations reflect the growing relationship between the two nations, which has been marked by significant investment flows.
From January to March 2025, trade between Brazil and Chile reached USD 2.7 billion, showcasing ongoing economic exchange. Brazil exported around USD 1.56 billion worth of goods, mainly crude oil and meat, while importing approximately USD 1.21 billion, with salmon and wine leading the imports from Chile. Both countries seek to reinforce this trade dynamic further amidst the backdrop of increasing bilateral investments.
The Brazil-Chile Business Forum served as a vital platform for both countries to reinforce their commitment to mutual trade and cooperation. With significant agreements and ongoing projects like the Capricorn Bioceanic Route on the horizon, the forum successfully underscored the importance of strategic partnerships. As both nations continue to evolve their relationship, they aim for a more prosperous future, respecting their sovereignty and enhancing economic ties.
Original Source: www.gov.br
