President Lula submits international agreements on defense, technical cooperation, humanitarian assistance to Congress

President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva submitted to the National Congress on Thursday, March 6, international agreements signed by Brazil with Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Bangladesh, and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). The documents address cooperation in areas such as defense, humanitarian assistance, agriculture, livestock, science, technology and technical collaboration.

JORDAN — Signed in Amman on July 1, 2024, the agreement with Jordan establishes bilateral cooperation in defense and covers technology transfer, military instruction and training, logistical support, weapons and equipment, research and development, United Nations (UN) peacekeeping operations, as well as crisis management, information exchange, military healthcare services, military legislation and history, topography, and environmental issues related to military facilities, with the aim of strengthening ties between the two countries.

ARABIA — With Saudi Arabia, the agreement signed in Riyadh on June 3, 2024, also establishes bilateral cooperation in defense and encompasses financing of systems, defense industries, legislation, and other mutually agreed areas, with the aim of strengthening the ties between the two countries in the sector.

BANGLADESH — The agreement between Brazil and the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, signed on April 7, 2024, aims to establish technical cooperation in agriculture, livestock, healthcare, education, professional qualification, and natural resource management, with a focus on sustainable forest management and renewable energy. The document also covers the development of small and medium-sized enterprises and workforce training, with the goal of strengthening the social and economic development of both countries.

HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE — A proposal to update the agreement between Brazil and the International Committee of the Red Cross, signed in Geneva on December 13, 2023, was also submitted to the legislature. The text replaces the agreement in effect since 1991. The revision strengthens the partnership, ensures greater protection in information exchange, and enhances humanitarian cooperation initiatives. With the rise in political crises, prolonged emergencies, and natural disasters, the update is seen as essential to ensure a more efficient and secure response to situations of vulnerability. The new agreement reinforces Brazil’s commitment to humanitarian assistance and allows the Red Cross to operate independently, neutrally, and impartially in the country. The modernization of the agreement not only strengthens the protection of vulnerable populations but also strengthens Brazil’s position as a global actor in humanitarian diplomacy.