Lula Addresses the UN General Assembly Amidst Diplomatic Tensions
President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva (PT) of Brazil is set to address the 80th United Nations General Assembly in New York on Tuesday, marking the traditional opening of the General Debate. His speech comes at a time of heightened diplomatic tensions, particularly with the United States, but also amidst efforts to strengthen Brazil's global standing.
Key Themes of Lula's Address
Lula's address is expected to cover a range of critical issues. These include the defense of national sovereignty, the strengthening of democracy, combating climate change, and seeking multilateral solutions to international crises. The ongoing conflict in Gaza and the Palestinian question are also likely to feature prominently. Moreover, the speech may contain veiled criticisms of U.S. foreign policy under Donald Trump.
- Defense of Brazilian sovereignty in light of trade disputes.
- Promotion of multilateralism and reformed international institutions.
- Emphasis on climate action and the upcoming COP30 summit.
Brazil's Position on the International Stage
Despite strained relations with the United States, some experts argue that Lula arrives at the UN "more strengthened than isolated." Since assuming his third term in 2023, Brazil has actively re-engaged on the international stage. This includes reinforcing its role within the BRICS economic bloc, attempting to revitalize Mercosul, and strengthening ties with African and Arab nations.
The Palestinian Question and the Two-State Solution
Prior to the official opening of the Assembly, Lula participated in the International High-Level Conference for the Peaceful Resolution of the Palestinian Question, convened by France and Saudi Arabia. The Brazilian government advocates for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Brazil hopes the conference will encourage more countries to recognize Palestine. The Itamaraty believes sustainable peace can only be achieved through negotiations between Israelis and Palestinians on equal footing.
"The position of the Brazilian government is that there should be a two-state solution. The expectation is that the conference will lead more countries to recognize Palestine..."
COP30 and Climate Action
The environmental agenda will be central to Lula's address. Brazil aims to showcase COP30, to be held in Belém (PA) in November, as a turning point for global financing of tropical forest preservation. Lula is expected to urge wealthy nations to increase funding and commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Key announcement will be the Tropical Forests Forever Fund (TFFF).
| Event | Location | Date | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| UN General Assembly | New York | September 23 | Lula's opening address |
| COP30 | Belém (PA), Brazil | November | Focus on climate finance |
Sovereignty and Relations with the United States
Lula's speech is likely to include a defense of national sovereignty, potentially in response to tariffs imposed by the United States on Brazilian products. The Brazilian government views these measures as political interference by Donald Trump. Lula has criticized this stance, emphasizing the independence of Brazilian institutions.
Democracy and Multilateralism
On Wednesday, Lula will co-chair the event "In Defense of Democracy" alongside the presidents of Chile and Spain. This initiative aims to unite leaders against extremism, disinformation, and the weakening of democratic institutions. The Brazilian government believes this reinforces its commitment to a more representative multilateralism and the need for reforms within organizations like the UN Security Council.
The U.S. government was not invited to the democracy event due to concerns that Donald Trump's actions are inconsistent with the conference's goals.
