By Marinel E. Peroy
Photos from The Philippine Business and News
In a significant step toward stronger diplomatic and environmental cooperation, Brazil and the Philippines have reaffirmed their commitment to sustainable development and climate action.
“Looking ahead, Brazil, now chairing the G-20, will host the 30th COP of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP-30) in 2025 in Belem, in the heart of the Amazon region. This meeting will offer a key opportunity for our countries to renew our commitment to addressing the climate crisis, a priority for both our Presidents,” said Brazil’s Ambassador to the Philippines Gilberto Fonseca Guimarães de Moura during the September 2 reception marking the 202nd anniversary of Brazil’s political emancipation.
Additionally, the ambassador said both Brazil and the Philippines, as vibrant democracies and diverse societies have made significant strides in their respective trade relations. Despite being on opposite sides of the globe, the Philippines is top importer of Brazilian meat.
Moura said promising areas for further cooperation include agricultural research, biofuels, defense products, and even space exploration.
Shared history, shared values
The ambassador said the connection between Brazil and the Philippines can be traced back to history. He said that between 1580 and 1640, both Portugal and Spain were ruled by King Philip II, resulting in Brazil and the Philippines sharing culture, religious traditions, and values.
“Together, we are celebrating the 202nd anniversary of Brazil’s political emancipation, declared by Prince Peter (Dom Pedro), later crowned Emperor. This commemoration comes soon after I had the privilege of receiving in Manila the Brazilian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Mauro Vieira,” the ambassador said.
“His official visit to the Philippines was the first by a Brazilian Foreign Minister in almost eight decades of diplomatic relations. This historical event underscores a simple fact: nothing can hinder the strong and enduring friendship between our two nations and the immense potential yet to be realized in our relationship,” he added.
The ambassador also congratulated Filipino Olympian Carlo Yulo for bringing home two gold medals from Paris.
“As the Philippines recently commemorated the Day of the Heroes, I would like to honor our national heroes who decorated the pages of our histories and modern-day heroes who brave everyday life with integrity and selfless sacrifice. As having hosted the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro in 2016, I must also salute the Filipino Hero of Sports, Mr. Carlo Yulo! Bravo!” he said.
The reception was held in Uma Nota, a Brazillian-Japanese restaurant in Shangri-La The Fort.
The ambassador noted the “enduring spirit of cultural integration that Uma Nota so beautifully embodies.”
“Blessed with Brazilian flavors, Uma Nota’s unique identity is a tribute to the historical journey of the Japanese immigrants who, in the early 20th century, settled in São Paulo’s Liberdade neighborhood. This area, a cultural melting pot, symbolizes the harmonious blend of Brazilian and Japanese cultures, mirroring the dynamic interplay that Uma Nota represents,” he said.
