Strengthening Bilateral Ties and Global Governance
The declaration occurred soon after a bilateral meeting between the Brazilian President and the Malaysian Prime Minister, Anwar Ibrahim. The meeting in Putrajaya marks a new moment in bilateral relations, with a focus on strengthening partnerships in strategic areas, Lula added.
Political Convergence and Global Views
“I did not come here merely with the interest of selling or with the interest of buying. I came here to tell Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim that we have the possibility of changing the world,” Lula said. “Of making things better, of preventing humanism from being defeated by algorithms. Of telling the world that the world needs peace and not war. Of telling the world that we need free trade and not protectionism.”
This is the first visit of President Lula to Malaysia in three decades. The meeting consolidates dialogue initiated between the leaders in previous G20 and BRICS summits, reflecting alignment on global themes such as strengthening multilateralism, combating hunger, and promoting peace.
Criticisms of Global Conflicts
Lula and Ibrahim both criticized wars such as those in Ukraine and Gaza, condemning violence and humanitarian suffering. Lula stressed the urgency of protecting children and civilians in conflict zones.
Call for Global Governance Reform
Lula emphasized the need to reform global governance institutions, arguing that bodies such as the UN and its Security Council are no longer functioning effectively to prevent conflicts.
Enhanced Cooperation and Trade
Agreements and New Market Access
Seven cooperation instruments were signed, including memorandums in semiconductors, science and innovation, space research, sustainable agriculture, and training partnerships. Six new markets were opened for Brazilian products, including chicken, fish, sesame, melon, apples, and powdered eggs. Malaysia also advanced auditing for Brazilian pork suppliers.
Lula affirmed the synergy between both nations: “Brazil needs Malaysia, and Malaysia needs Brazil.”
Bilateral Trade Figures
Malaysia is a key Brazilian partner in Asia. Bilateral trade reached US$ 5.8 billion in 2024, with Brazil recording a surplus of US$ 2.7 billion. Main exports include iron ore and crude petroleum oils.
Malaysia’s View and ASEAN Engagement
Anwar Ibrahim’s Statement
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim highlighted Lula’s international leadership and his defense of social justice, emphasizing that the bilateral partnership extends beyond trade into cultural and human development cooperation.
Focus on ASEAN
Malaysia is part of ASEAN, the Southeast Asian regional bloc. Lula will be the first Brazilian president to participate in an ASEAN Summit. Over the last 25 years, Brazil-ASEAN trade increased more than sixteen-fold, reaching US$ 37.2 billion in 2024.
Climate Change and the “COP of Truth”
Lula underscored the urgency of climate action and the need for binding commitments. He stated that COP30 in Belém will be the moment to convert promises into results, calling it the “COP of truth”.