On August 12, President Xi Jinping held a phone conversation with Brazilian President Lula at the latter’s request.

Xi noted that China-Brazil relations are at their best in history, with strong progress in building a shared future and aligning development strategies. China is ready to work with Brazil to seize opportunities, strengthen coordination, and achieve more mutually beneficial outcomes, setting an example for solidarity and self-reliance among major Global South nations while jointly promoting a fairer world and a more sustainable planet.

Lula emphasized Brazil’s commitment to enhancing ties with China, deepening strategic alignment, and advancing bilateral relations. He shared updates on Brazil-U.S. relations and reaffirmed Brazil’s principled stance on safeguarding sovereignty, praising China’s adherence to multilateralism, free trade, and its responsible role in global affairs. Brazil seeks closer coordination with China in BRICS and other multilateral forums to oppose unilateral bullying and uphold shared interests.

Xi expressed China’s support for Brazil in defending sovereignty and legitimate rights. Nations must unite against unilateralism and protectionism. Hailing BRICS as a key platform for Global South solidarity, he congratulated Brazil on hosting a successful BRICS summit. Global South countries should jointly uphold international fairness, fundamental norms, and the legitimate rights of developing nations. China and Brazil must continue addressing global challenges, ensuring the success of the upcoming UN Climate Change Conference in Belém and supporting the “Group of Friends for Peace” in facilitating a political solution to the Ukraine crisis.

BRICS

BRICS is an association of five major emerging economies: Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. Formed in 2009 (with South Africa joining in 2010), the group aims to enhance economic cooperation, political coordination, and development among its members. It represents over 40% of the world’s population and plays a significant role in global economic and geopolitical discussions.

UN Climate Change Conference

The **UN Climate Change Conference**, also known as the **Conference of the Parties (COP)**, is an annual international summit where world leaders, scientists, and activists gather to negotiate global climate action. Established under the **United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)** in 1992, the conference has led to key agreements like the **Kyoto Protocol (1997)** and the **Paris Agreement (2015)**. Its goal is to limit global temperature rise by coordinating emissions reductions and climate adaptation strategies.

Belém

Belém is a historic district in Lisbon, Portugal, known for its significant role during the Age of Discoveries in the 15th and 16th centuries. It is home to iconic landmarks like the Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which were built under King Manuel I to commemorate Portugal’s maritime explorations. The area also houses the famous Pastéis de Belém bakery, renowned for its traditional Portuguese custard tarts.

Group of Friends for Peace

The **Group of Friends for Peace** is an informal alliance of countries and international organizations committed to promoting peace, dialogue, and conflict resolution. Established within the United Nations framework, it fosters collaboration among member states to support mediation, preventive diplomacy, and sustainable peacebuilding efforts. While its exact founding date varies by region, it reflects a broader global initiative to strengthen multilateral cooperation for peace.