Cooperation Modalities

The Brazilian government implements technical cooperation actions according to two modalities: cooperation from abroad to Brazil, and cooperation from Brazil abroad (or "South-South Cooperation").

Cooperation from abroad to Brazil is a modality provided under two arrangements: multilateral cooperation and bilateral cooperation; the first one is implemented with international organizations, whereas the second one involves developed countries. Its main characteristics are the following:

• It contributes to the socioeconomic development of Brazil;

• It focuses on the sharing knowledge that has not yet been mastered in Brazil;

• Brazilian cooperating institutions offer infrastructure, equipment, and human resources, but no financial resources;

• The initiatives undertaken are not based on assistance;

• It applies the principles of neutrality, non-interference in internal affairs, and universality. 

Cooperation from Brazil abroad, in other words, South-South Cooperation, is implemented exclusively in response to requests that are officially received through Brazilian embassies in foreign countries, or forwarded by foreign embassies in Brasilia. Brazil does not propose any cooperation action on its own initiative. Under this modality, initiatives can be implemented according to different arrangements, such as bilateral cooperation, trilateral cooperation, or cooperation with groups of countries. Its main characteristics are the following:

• Actions are taken in response to requests made by developing countries;

• Such response is based on foreign policy guidelines and takes into account the specific interests of Brazilian cooperating institutions;

• Initiatives are focused on developing human skills and expertise, institutional competences, and productive capacities;

• There is no direct transfer of financial resources to partner countries, but rather the sharing of knowledge and successful experiences acquired by Brazilian institutions;

• Among others, Brazilian cooperation is guided by the principles of horizontal relationships, neutrality, non-conditionality, and mutual benefits.