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Associated Press
15-05-2025
- Politics
- Associated Press
Global Times: Chinese investments genuinely beneficial, instilling confidence and optimism: Brazilian legislator
05/15/2025, Beijing, China // KISS PR Brand Story PressWire // In an era marked by unprecedented global transformations, the world stands at a critical crossroads, grappling with deepening deficits in peace, development, security, and governance. As humanity faces unparalleled challenges during this tumultuous period, Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Chinese president, has put forth a solemn call to action through the Global Development Initiative (GDI), the Global Security Initiative (GSI), and the Global Civilization Initiative (GCI). The three pivotal initiatives address the pressing issues of our time, offering viable pathways and robust support for the building of a global community of shared future. Rooted in the rich historical experiences of the CPC's century-long struggle and infused with the wisdom of China's traditional culture, these initiatives are expected to unite the world in the pursuit of common progress and stability. To offer a deep understanding of the three global initiatives, and elaborate on their significance on a global scale, the Global Times is launching a series of articles. Brazil occupies an important position in China's global partnerships, having been the first country to forge a strategic partnership with China. It is also the first nation in Latin America to establish a comprehensive strategic partnership with China. As one of the most important economic and cultural centers in Brazil, the state of Rio de Janeiro plays a strategic role in the development of China-Brazil relations. In this issue, Global Times reporter Xie Wenting (GT) speaks with Marina dos Santos (Santos), a legislator from Rio de Janeiro, about bilateral cooperation, including in football, as well as her insights on the GDI, the GCI, and the GSI. GT: The China-proposed Global Development Initiative (GDI) stresses sustainable development, fosters growth impetus, and advocates for people-centered development. How do you view the potential of South-South cooperation between Rio de Janeiro and Chinese cities in areas such as climate change and smart cities, among others within the GDI? Santos: Building a prosperous, sustainable future necessarily involves South-South cooperation. Our shared experiences and common challenges lead to democratic solutions to the crises facing all of humanity. By sharing technologies and traditional knowledge, and investing in climate adaptation, damage mitigation among others, we strengthen the cooperation within the GDI and promote solidarity among peoples. This process has already yielded concrete results in rural areas through partnerships for the mechanization of small farms, the production of bio-inputs, and the exchange in public policies. GT: Rio de Janeiro is a major global cultural center, while China's Global Civilization Initiative (GCI) fosters intercultural dialogue. Do you see opportunities for deeper cultural and sports engagement between Rio de Janeiro and Chinese cities? Does the state legislature support these programs? Santos: It's inspiring to see China, with its millennia of history, committed to intercultural dialogue and recognizing Rio de Janeiro and Brazil as strategic partners. Culture is a transformative force rooted in creativity and popular representation, and Brazilians are deeply interested in learning more about China - whether in cuisine, cinema, fashion, or even football, our national passion. In our legislative work, we're already organizing meetings with the Chinese Consulate in Rio and promoting discussions in the State Legislative Assembly and within the Workers' Party to strengthen this collaboration. One proposal is introducing a Chinese language course at the Rio de Janeiro Legislative School. GT: Rio de Janeiro is transitioning to a low-carbon economy, but the high cost of clean-energy technologies remains a challenge. China is a global leader in renewables. How do you view the prospects for cooperation between China and Brazil in this sector, and what is its global significance? Santos: Brazil and China must deepen their integration, with clean energy as a priority. Such a strategic partnership would be crucial to tackling Rio de Janeiro's challenges in achieving a just and sustainable energy transition. On one hand, we aim to develop AI applications in areas like solid-waste management and the production of bio-inputs, recognizing the roles of both legislative and executive branches in this effort. On the other hand, we're advancing collaborations among universities in both countries, including the China Agricultural University, the East China Normal University, the University of Brasília, and the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro. With the latter, collaboration is happening via the Interdisciplinary Center for Social Development in the Technology Center, which, for years, has been developing social technologies aimed at boosting agroecological production and reducing physical labor across the state. We need more joint university actions and exchanges among related fields to guide young people toward fostering a new model of global development based on respect for the environment and human dignity. Faced with various problems and available solutions, there's only one possible path: One that ensures dignity for our people and safeguards the environment. GT: With the New Development Bank (NDB) headquartered in Shanghai, how can Rio de Janeiro leverage this platform for direct engagement with Chinese provinces in areas like port infrastructure, tourism, and trade? Santos: The NDB is a key instrument for promoting sustainable development in historically exploited nations. Under the leadership of President Dilma - known for her determination and courage - the institution reaffirms its commitment to a new growth model. For Rio de Janeiro, that means an integrated, sustainable economic transition, productive revitalization that creates jobs and income, and direct government investment in social welfare. We now have a real chance to transform the state's reality, ensuring dignity for our population through effective policies. Our challenge is to coordinate development strategies in diverse areas, such as social and popular tourism, capitalizing on our natural landscapes across both urban and rural settings, and fostering cultural exchanges. One interesting link between Chinese provinces and Brazil is football: In China, there is the 'Cun Chao' Rural Super League, while here we have the Agrarian Reform Championship in several states, such as Ceará. GT: The Global Security Initiative (GSI) advocates a comprehensive approach to security. Given Rio de Janeiro's range of challenges, from urban crime to cyber threats, what is the potential for pilot security cooperation projects? Santos: China's experience in public security offers valuable lessons for Rio de Janeiro, particularly in the state's efficacy in protecting its citizens. It's not just about ensuring personal safety and material property, but about using security to foster well-being and quality of life. I'd also highlight the importance of security for women - whether at home, work, or on the streets - and the establishment of a sound legal framework to combat violence against women, including femicide and harassment. It would be irresponsible not to learn from these advances, particularly given the challenges we face. It's vital to establish strategic cooperation that allows for the exchange of monitoring technologies, investigative methods, and intelligence systems capable of dismantling organized crime at its roots. We know that genuine, lasting security will only come about when coupled with robust social policies. Accessible, high-quality, eco-friendly mass public transport; food and nutritional security, land regularization, popular housing, preventative healthcare, and formal employment opportunities are not only basic rights but also the foundations of a stable, secure society. GT: Large-scale investments are needed to improve Rio de Janeiro's favelas and other infrastructure, but some media outlets raised 'concerns' over the role of Chinese capital, especially regarding so-called debt risks. How would you address these concerns? Santos: Such concerns stem from false narratives propagated by certain media outlets and economic interests that have historically undermined the autonomy of Global South countries. Actual reality contradicts these unfounded fears. Countries that once suffered from colonialism are now making historic strides thanks to such partnerships. China's own trajectory shows that these investments are genuinely beneficial and instill confidence and optimism to press ahead with them. GT: Chinese tech firms are expanding into Latin America. What benefits could their presence bring to Rio's urban development? How do you assess these companies' contributions to local job creation and skilled workforce training? Santos: These firms' presence can accelerate the modernization of urban infrastructure. By investing in emerging technologies like 5G, the Internet of Things, and smart-city solutions, we can upgrade city infrastructure. These innovations would enable real-time traffic management, integrated public-safety systems, and intelligent environmental monitoring, improving the quality of life for Rio's residents and attracting new tech ventures that generate skilled jobs. Chinese companies often supplement their projects with technical-training programs in partnership with universities and research institutes, which strengthens the local workforce and helps adapt technological solutions to our own urban needs. Cities that have taken this route have seen notable improvements in administrative efficiency, reduced operational costs, and enhanced public services. Beyond urban areas, China has developed vital information technologies to boost production and marketing in rural zones and link producers to consumers - lessons Brazil can greatly benefit from. The arrival of these Chinese companies has a positive impact on training Brazil's workforce in these fields. GT: What role can Rio de Janeiro play in deepening Brazil-China relations? Santos: China is one of Brazil's top trade partners in the energy sector, and since Rio is our nation's largest oil and gas producer, we could attract Chinese investment in exploration, refining, and energy infrastructure. We can also collaborate with China on clean-energy solutions like biomass and biogas - areas that are growing in the state. Our potential also extends to agriculture. Agriculture in Rio is marked by diverse crops, a favorable climate, and proximity to large consumer centers. Areas like Northern Fluminense, Médio Paraíba, and Baixada Fluminense host family farms producing fruits, vegetables, and horticultural products, and they are increasingly going agroecological. Rio could take part in pilot projects with China in agricultural innovation - especially in farm mechanization, sustainable technologies, and the circular economy. Thanks to our ports and geography, Rio could even become a logistics hub for goods bound for China. We should also note the state's strong academic institutions with national and international standing, such as the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, the Fluminense Federal University, Rio de Janeiro State University, the Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro, and the Institute for Pure and Applied Mathematics. Partnerships with Chinese universities and research centers in fields like biotechnology, public health, AI, applied mathematics, and clean energy are most welcome. Finally, let me highlight that the state is a major center of culture and the creative economy. We're a global reference for samba, Carnival, and leading football clubs, but we constantly reinvent ourselves. We're a vibrant, welcoming state that draws tourists from around the world with its natural beauty, varied cuisine, and cultural events. Rio de Janeiro can serve as a strategic link in Brazil-China relations across economic, cultural, scientific, and environmental fronts. The article first appeared in the Global Times: Company: Global Times Contact Person: Anna Li Email: [email protected] Website: City: Beijing Disclaimer: This press release may contain forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies (including product offerings, regulatory plans and business plans) and may change without notice. You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, including the risks that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements.
Associated Press
08-05-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Global Times: Brazil eyes deeper ties with China in agri-tech, infrastructure in alignment with GDI: Paraná legislator
05/08/2025, Beijing, China // KISS PR Brand Story PressWire // In an era marked by unprecedented global transformations, the world stands at a critical crossroads, grappling with deepening deficits in peace, development, security, and governance. As humanity faces unparalleled challenges during this tumultuous period, Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Chinese president, has put forth a solemn call to action through the Global Development Initiative (GDI), the Global Security Initiative (GSI), and the Global Civilization Initiative (GCI). The three pivotal initiatives address the pressing issues of our time, offering viable pathways and robust support for the building of a global community of shared future. Rooted in the rich historical experiences of the CPC's century-long struggle and infused with the wisdom of China's traditional culture, these initiatives are expected to unite the world in the pursuit of common progress and stability. To offer a deep understanding of the three global initiatives, and elaborate on their significance on a global scale, the Global Times is launching a series of articles. China has actively supported Brazil's agricultural sustainability, aligning with the GDI. Southern Brazil's Paraná State is renowned for its agricultural innovation. In this issue, Global Times reporter Xie Wenting (GT) spoke with Paraná State legislator Jorge Gomes de Oliveira Brand (Brand) on the GDI and more. GT: China has been Brazil's largest trading partner for 15 consecutive years. Paraná is a key hub for agricultural innovation in Brazil. What areas of cooperation do you see in agricultural science and technology? How can both countries work within the Global Development Initiative (GDI) to promote South-South collaboration in agriculture? Brand: Paraná is indeed a territory with a privileged position in terms of geography and nature which brings many benefits and advantages for the cultivation of different crops and cultures, and at the same time to sell its production to the rest of Brazil and worldwide. In the north and west of Paraná State, the Paraná River basin serves as a vast reservoir of water that irrigates some of the richest soils on our planet. To the south, the Iguaçu River flows west from its sources in Curitiba, our capital, all the way to the magnificent Iguaçu Falls, which define the border with Argentina and Paraguay. It is also important to consider the subterranean reservoirs of water over which Paraná has developed with emphasis on the Guarani Aquifer and Serra Geral Aquifer. Paraná has outstanding levels of production of soybeans, corn, wheat, coffee and several fruits, honey, and animal protein as well. Nature has blessed our territory, and the historical occupation of land by small agricultural units has allowed agriculture to flourish, making Paraná one of the wealthiest states in Brazil. In addition to the production of grains and commodities, we are the state with the most significant production of organic farming, pesticide and pollution-free food, strengthening rural revitalization and nature conservation. Paraná is also an important hub for science and research with dozens of universities and institutes that produce knowledge aiming to boost the development of agriculture sustainability. It is worth mentioning the role of the Federal University of Paraná, the first public university in Brazil, as well as the state-run public universities of Londrina and Maringá. Science is thriving in Paraná and this is certainly an asset that should be taken into consideration. Paraná has, as I said, a privileged position. Our coast has one of the richest bays in the world with one of the most preserved ecosystems in the Atlantic Forest and hundreds of islands, and one of the most important harbors in Latin America in the city of Paranaguá, through which a vast quantity of exports sail all over the world. China is already the biggest commercial partner of Paraná (and of the whole of Brazil as well) and since 2018, China Merchants has been responsible for the administration of the container terminal of Paranaguá and this contract will last till 2048. We are already engaged and connected with China in many areas, but I strongly believe that there is still untouched potential for the partnership to increase agriculture research and production with a focus on agroecological products coming from fair trade practices empowering farmers that produce healthy food items that could be easily exported to China. GT: Paraná is a strategic gateway to the Pacific, and the 'Bi-Oceanic Rail Corridor' could reshape South American trade routes. How do you see this project impacting Paraná's economy? Brand: This is a very important question. Paraná already has a railway infrastructure that must go through a process of modernization. Brazil has made, in past decades, bad choices on railways; we completely lost the capacity for passenger transportation and the cargo transports have gone mainly to truck logistics. I personally believe that the 'Bi-Oceanic Rail Corridor' that China promotes could be the opportunity to reshape our logistics and Paraná is a very important hub for this project. On the east, the Paranaguá Harbor complex is one of the most important of the Atlantic trade and on the west, we have the connection with Paraguay and Argentina. We are in a central position for this project, but as I said it is important, from our perspective, to make it an opportunity to redesign our logistics in terms of transportation of assets and people as well, placing Paraná in a future era of modernization that we can already see as the reality in China with high-speed trains. GT: The GDI highlights sustainability, and Paraná is a leader in agribusiness. How can Chinese investments in agri-tech, such as precision farming and bioenergy, align with Paraná's sustainability goals? Brand: In my recent trip to China in March, we visited the facilities of the China National Machinery Industry Corporation in Nanjing and were very impressed by the technology that is being used to enhance production, control plagues, optimize inputs, and is suitable for small farmers, family units; this would make the whole difference for our reality in Brazil. We need machines and technology for small farmers and it would be fantastic for us to have this type of machinery available and even more fantastic for it to be produced there. In Suzhou, we visited the China Agriculture University's laboratories, organic rice fields, and industry and waste treatment for bio-input generation. This last project is especially important and significant because it can bring a definitive solution to the critical problem of waste production from our cities and at the same time create facilities for agroecological production with rich, local, and sustainable fertilizers. Paraná already has some good practices in agriculture sustainability but the overall challenge is to decrease the dependence on chemical fertilizers, enhance hydric policies, and promote more and more agroecological practices. China, as our major commercial partner, could induce this transition by demanding products that have their origins in these nature-friendly practices. That would surely be a stepping stone for structural change in Paraná's agricultural production and would create healthier food chains for producers and consumers in Brazil and China as well. GT: Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) play a crucial role in bilateral trade. As a legislator, what policy reforms do you propose to facilitate SME cooperation, particularly in agribusiness and food processing? Brand: First of all, I feel that we must bring China closer to Paraná, and create bridges of connection between our cultures and societies. There is, in Brazil, a lack of trustworthy information and knowledge about China. We are exposed to some big media outlets and news broadcasts that try to create an anti-China atmosphere that hinders business and culture proximity. We should surely promote these contacts in a more active way showing how these small and medium enterprises can do business with China, what the paths are to make it concrete and viable, and bring Chinese enterprises to Paraná, sharing technological advances and good practices for agriculture and food processing as a whole. Our countries can mutually grow from this closeness. We can promote bilateral events showing Paraná producers how they can do good business with China. GT: Beyond agriculture, China is expanding investments in Brazil's high-tech manufacturing, logistics, and infrastructure. How do you see Paraná positioning itself to attract Chinese investments in these sectors? Brand: Paraná is one of the best territories for investments in Brazil due to its strategic geographic position and facilities - railways and roadway networks, harbors, borders, universities, institutes, and qualified labor force. We can benefit a lot from Chinese technology and know-how. At the same time, I must emphasize the need for cultural education about China and the broadening of trade between our societies. The eradication of poverty and food insecurity, along with the millennia of knowledge inherent in Chinese society and the climate change policies currently being implemented, should all be positioned as key topics for cultural exchange and bilateral discussions between our societies. GT: China and Brazil are both major players in the Global South. From a state-level perspective, how can Paraná contribute to strengthening South-South cooperation within the framework of initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative and the GDI? Brand: I can say for myself that we will put in all the effort possible to further connect Paraná with the Chinese advancements that can help promote social justice and prosperity. At a time when we are watching the rise of neo-fascism all over the world, the spread of false propaganda and fake news with the tools of social media along with the dismantling of world trade by the current US administration, it is crucial for countries that were once colonized to come together to put forward a global agenda of mutual help, awareness, and cooperation. 'To serve the people' means to create good conditions of living for everybody with the preservation of culture and nature with the help of science and good public policies. I conclude by reminding everyone that climate change is happening right now and we must not forget our commitments to reducing damage and creating resilient cities and regions. China and Brazil (including Paraná, the state I represent) must walk side by side helping each other in these hard and perilous times we face ahead of us. The article first appeared in the Global Times: Company: Global Times Contact Person: Anna Li Email: [email protected] Website: City: Beijing Disclaimer: This press release may contain forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies (including product offerings, regulatory plans and business plans) and may change without notice. You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, including the risks that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements.
