Switzerland–Brazil: State Secretary Livia Leu meets Secretary General Fernando Simas Magalhães
Bern, 11.04.2022 - FDFA State Secretary Livia Leu today received the Brazilian Secretary General of Foreign Affairs, Fernando Simas Magalhães, in Bern for the 10th round of political consultations between Switzerland and Brazil. The discussions covered political and economic relations, sustainability, human rights, research and innovation, and regional and international affairs.
The meeting provided an opportunity for Ms Leu to present to her interlocutor the Americas Strategy adopted by the Federal Council on 16 February 2022, which defines Brazil as a partner of global importance.
During the talks, both sides welcomed the quality of relations between the two countries, which are strengthened by high-level meetings and regular dialogue on the economy, science, research and human rights.
With a GDP of almost USD 1,500 billion, Brazil is the largest economy in Latin America and the ninth largest in the world. Brazil is Switzerland's biggest trading partner in Latin America, with bilateral trade amounting to around CHF 4 billion, which represents almost 25% of Switzerland's total trade with Latin America.
Brazil is also an important player in multilateral forums. If elected in June this year, Switzerland will join Brazil on the UN Security Council in 2023. Avenues for collaboration in this regard were also discussed.
The consultations concluded with an exchange of views on regional developments in Latin America and Europe, including the situation in Ukraine. Political consultations between Switzerland and Brazil take place once a year at the level of the State Secretary and the Secretary General. The next round is expected to take place in 2023 in Brazil.
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