Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva to Visit China at End of Month, Confirms Beijing’s Foreign Ministry

Chinese President Xi Jinping has invited Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva for a state visit to China from March 26 to 31, according to a statement by the foreign ministry spokesperson, Hua Chunying.

Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, who served as the leader of Latin America’s largest economy twice between 2003 and 2010, is showing the first signs of wanting to end Brazil’s international isolation after four years under far-right predecessor Jair Bolsonaro.

Lula, who took office in January, will make his first visit to China during his presidency at the end of March.

During his inauguration speech in Congress, Lula announced his plan to give Brazil a new role in the world by renewing “South American integration” and reconstructing “high and active dialogue” with key global players such as the United States, the European Community, and China.

As Brazil’s top trade partner with $152.6 billion in bilateral trade last year, China holds great significance to Brazil’s economic success.

Lula’s expressed interest in improving diplomatic relations with China is a marked departure from the policies of his predecessor Bolsonaro.

Read more Brazil latest news