Japan and Brazil Leaders to Initiate Biannual Mutual Visits

Japan and Brazil are set to implement a bilateral action plan for mutual leader visits every two years and establish a strategic dialogue between their foreign ministers, aiming to strengthen relations across political, economic, and security sectors. Brazilian President Lula’s visit is the first in 27 years and coincides with the 130th anniversary of diplomatic relations.

The governments of Japan and Brazil are preparing to create a bilateral action plan that will enable mutual visits by their leaders every two years. This decision coincides with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva’s upcoming four-day visit to Japan, starting Monday. A meeting between President Lula and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba is scheduled for Wednesday, where they aim to enhance bilateral relations across economic, diplomatic, and security domains.

The Japanese Foreign Ministry has indicated that Lula’s visit marks the first state visit by a Brazilian president to Japan since March 1996. This year also commemorates the 130th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations. Lula’s state visit follows the last such occasion in May 2019 with former US President Donald Trump and marks the inaugural state guest reception for Prime Minister Ishiba’s administration, which began in October 2024.

During the visit, Lula’s wife will accompany him, and the couple is expected to meet with Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako and attend a banquet at the Imperial Palace. Brazil’s growing influence as a significant member of the Global South is noteworthy; however, the Lula administration is perceived as left-leaning, which may affect its alignment with traditional allies like the United States.

In summary, the planned bilateral action plan between Japan and Brazil is poised to strengthen their diplomatic ties significantly through mutual leader visits and strategic dialogue. The discussions during Lula’s state visit are expected to cover essential topics such as climate change and economic cooperation, opening avenues for increased collaboration. As both nations navigate their international relationships, enhancing their ties could also counterbalance influences from countries like China and Russia.

Original Source: www.nationthailand.com