Lula, Macron discuss bilateral relations, sovereignty in context of digital network policies

Brazil’s Lula receives phone call from French leader Jan. 10; Macron extends invitation for State visit to France, participation in UN Ocean Conference

Published in Jan 10, 2025 04:15 PM Updated in Jan 10, 2025 06:19 PM

President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva received a phone call on Friday, January 10, from French President Emmanuel Macron.

The conversation, which began at noon and lasted about 30 minutes, covered topics of bilateral and global significance.

President Lula praised the French government’s statements regarding Meta’s recent decision to reduce fact-checking of its posts.

Both leaders agreed that freedom of speech does not mean the freedom to spread lies, prejudice and offenses. They emphasized the importance of Brazil and Europe continuing with joint efforts to prevent the spread of “fake news” from jeopardizing the sovereignty of nations, democracy and the fundamental rights of their citizens.

President Macron extended a renewed invitation to President Lula for a State visit to France in June, as well as for Lula’s participation in the United Nations Ocean Conference.