The U.S. has imposed a 50 percent tariff on Brazilian imports, prompting Xi Jinping and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva to hold a phone call on August 12, according to Xinhua News Agency. Xi stressed that all countries should unite and firmly oppose unilateralism and protectionism.
Lula briefed Xi on Brazil’s recent relations with the U.S. and reiterated Brazil’s firm stance on defending national sovereignty. He praised China for upholding multilateralism, safeguarding free trade rules, and playing a responsible role in international affairs. Lula added that Brazil is willing to strengthen coordination with China within BRICS and other multilateral mechanisms, jointly opposing unilateral bullying and defending common interests.
Xi emphasized that China-Brazil ties are at their best period in history. He affirmed China’s support for Brazil’s defense of sovereignty and legitimate rights. He called on all countries to unite and take a clear stand against unilateralism and protectionism. Xi further underlined that the BRICS mechanism is a key platform for building Global South consensus, and that developing countries should unite to safeguard fairness, justice, international norms, and their rightful interests.
Source: Central News Agency (Taiwan), August 12, 2025
https://www.cna.com.tw/news/acn/202508120118.aspx