March 7, 2025 – In a bid to strengthen bilateral relations and diversify partnerships, Brazil’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mauro Vieira, will embark on a five-nation tour of West Africa, visiting Cabo Verde, Benin, Nigeria, Senegal, and Côte d’Ivoire. The official visits, scheduled for March 10-14, aim to address pressing issues on the bilateral agenda, including trade and investment, air connectivity, defense cooperation, and multilateral concerns such as poverty eradication, global governance reform, and environmental protection.
Since taking office, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has prioritized engagement with Africa, recognizing the continent’s immense growth potential. With over 1.5 billion inhabitants, Africa is now a key player in shaping regional dynamics, presenting Brazil with opportunities to expand its economic and diplomatic influence.
Trade between Brazil and the African nations set to visit totals US$3.17 billion, underscoring the substantial commercial ties that already exist. The forthcoming visits will seek to build on these connections, fostering greater cooperation in areas such as infrastructure development, technology transfer, and entrepreneurship promotion.
- Cabo Verde (March 10): Discussions will focus on strengthening air connectivity, promoting tourism, and enhancing defense cooperation.
- Benin (March 11): The two nations will work together to develop sustainable agriculture practices, enhance regional trade agreements, and strengthen institutional partnerships.
- Nigeria (March 12): Brazil and Nigeria will discuss energy cooperation, promote joint investments in the extractive sector, and enhance educational exchanges.
- Senegal (March 13): The countries will address issues related to climate change, environmental protection, and disaster management, as well as develop a framework for cooperation on regional security and counter-terrorism initiatives.
- Côte d’Ivoire (March 14): Brazil and Côte d’Ivoire will focus on promoting economic growth, enhancing trade facilitation, and strengthening institutional partnerships in the areas of governance, rule of law, and human rights.
In this context, Brazil’s diplomatic efforts aim to capitalize on Africa’s dynamic growth, ensuring that the nation remains a key player in regional affairs. As the continent continues to assert its influence, Brazil seeks to build lasting relationships with African nations, fostering greater cooperation on issues of shared concern and promoting a more inclusive and equitable global order.
By strengthening ties with West Africa, Brazil is poised to solidify its position as a major player in the region, leveraging the vast potential of Africa’s growing markets, populations, and economies. As the continent continues to evolve, Brazil’s diplomatic efforts will play a critical role in shaping regional dynamics and promoting global stability.