Lula pleads for Biden to prioritize investment in Brazil over war funding
Brazil’s President, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, indicated his intention to persuade the U.S. government, led by Joe Biden, to consider investments in Brazil rather than directing funds toward international conflicts.
This was voiced while introducing his key initiative, the Growth Acceleration Program (PAC), which aims to amass US$340 billion over the coming years.
Combining both public funds and private investment, the program targets advancements in infrastructure, education, and oil extraction.
Lula has emphasized the need for Brazilian officials to promote these projects globally actively.
Reportedly, the President plans to discuss potential collaborations with his U.S. counterpart on the sidelines of the upcoming United Nations General Assembly in New York this September.
In addition to seeking investments from the U.S., Lula highlighted potential funding from regions like China and the European Union.
Historically, during his earlier terms (2003-2010), Lula supported a multipolar world order and played a significant role in forming the BRICS nations.
Lula has consistently expressed reservations about the proxy war against Russia involving Ukraine, heavily influenced by the U.S. and its NATO allies.
Prior to his recent presidential term, in a 2022 interview with Time magazine, he conveyed skepticism about international media coverage of Ukraine’s President, Volodímir Zelenski.
He had previously declined to send arms to Ukraine, emphasizing the need for peace and negotiations.
Lula proposed forming a neutral nations group to mediate the Russia-Ukraine situation.
He also questioned countries prone to military interventions without global consent, alluding to past actions by the U.S. in Iraq and UK-France engagements in Libya.
Echoing sentiments from July, Lula reiterated his agreement with Pope Francis, emphasizing the importance of promoting peace over war.
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