China's Xi urges unity, stand against unilateralism, protectionism in call with Brazil's Lula

By Anadolu staff

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday called for unity among nations and a determined stand against unilateralism and protectionism, during a phone call with Brazilian President Luiz Lula da Silva, according to state-run Xinhua News Agency.

Speaking with Lula, Xi said that the relations between the two countries are currently at their best in history, with strategic cooperation progressing smoothly and yielding mutually beneficial results.

"China is willing to work with Brazil to seize opportunities, strengthen coordination, and create more mutually beneficial cooperation results, set an example of unity and self-reliance among major countries in the global South, and jointly build a more just world and a more sustainable planet," Chinese president said.

He added that China and Brazil should continue to jointly address global challenges, ensure the success of the UN Climate Change Conference in Belém, and promote the role of the "Group of Friends of Peace" in promoting a political solution to the Ukrainian crisis.

Lula reaffirmed Brazil’s commitment to strengthening ties with China, enhancing strategic synergy, and promoting bilateral development.

"We welcomed the progress already achieved in the synergies between the national development programs of the two countries and committed to expanding the scope of cooperation to sectors such as health, oil and gas, digital economy, and satellites," he said on X after the phone call.

The call lasted for around an hour, according to Lula.

Brazil is facing 50% tariffs by the US and is current chair of the BRICS.

*Writing by Islamuddin Sajid