China and Brazil Strengthen Ties to Safeguard Global South Interests

On January 23, 2026, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva engaged in a 45-minute telephone conversation, emphasizing their commitment to protecting the interests of the Global South and reinforcing the role of the United Nations amid rising global tensions. Xi described both nations as "constructive forces" in promoting world peace and improving global governance, urging collaboration to uphold international fairness and justice.

China’s Xi Urges Brazil’s Lula to Jointly Protect Global South InterestsChina, Brazil unite on Global South, UN role amid global tensionsXi Calls on Brazil to Defend Global South InterestsXi urges China, Brazil to better safeguard shared interests of Global South, jointly maintain UN's core role, intl fairness, justice in phone talks with LulaChina's Xi urges Brazil's Lula to jointly protect Global South interestsXi Jinping Tells Brazil China Will Stand With Global South Amid Rising Global TensionsChina and Brazil Presidents Vow to Protect Global South Interests Amid these Turbulent Times

The dialogue followed Lula's public criticism of U.S. military actions in Venezuela, particularly the recent seizure of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by U.S. authorities. This incident has raised concerns among Latin American countries regarding potential foreign interventions and has been criticized by U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres for undermining the principles of international law. Lula's op-ed in the New York Times highlighted the need for South American nations to maintain sovereignty over their affairs, marking a significant stance against perceived U.S. hegemony.

Xi assures Brazil's Lula of China's support in 'turbulent' times

During the call, Xi reiterated China's commitment to enhancing economic ties with Brazil, highlighting a strategic partnership that aligns China's Belt and Road Initiative with Brazil's development plans in agriculture, infrastructure, and energy transition. This partnership aims to foster a "China-Latin America community with a shared future." Notably, bilateral trade between China and Brazil reached a historic high of $171 billion in 2025, more than double Brazil's trade with the United States, reflecting a decade-long expansion of economic relations.

Xi urges China, Brazil to better safeguard shared interests of Global South, jointly maintain UN's core role, intl fairness, justice in phone talks with LulaChina and Brazil Presidents Vow to Protect Global South Interests Amid these Turbulent TimesXi assures Brazil's Lula of China's support in 'turbulent' timesXi Calls on Brazil to Defend Global South InterestsChina's Xi urges Brazil's Lula to jointly protect Global South interestsXi Jinping Tells Brazil China Will Stand With Global South Amid Rising Global Tensions

Both leaders reaffirmed their dedication to multilateralism and the strengthening of the United Nations as a cornerstone for global peace and stability. Lula's office confirmed that the two presidents agreed on the importance of safeguarding the U.N. amid a turbulent international landscape, with Xi stating, "China is committed to always being a good friend and partner to countries in Latin America and the Caribbean."

Xi urges China, Brazil to better safeguard shared interests of Global South, jointly maintain UN's core role, intl fairness, justice in phone talks with Lula

Despite the positive tone of the discussions, there are concerns regarding the implications of U.S. actions in Latin America. Critics argue that the U.S. approach could destabilize the region and provoke further interventions, which Lula has condemned as detrimental to international law. Experts have noted that the coordination among BRICS nations, including Brazil and China, is vital in opposing hegemonic practices and promoting a more equitable international order.

Xi urges China, Brazil to better safeguard shared interests of Global South, jointly maintain UN's core role, intl fairness, justice in phone talks with Lula

Looking ahead, both leaders expressed intentions to deepen cooperation across various fields, including manufacturing and technological innovation. As global geopolitical dynamics continue to evolve, the partnership between China and Brazil is poised to play a significant role in shaping the future of the Global South and addressing shared challenges in international governance.

Xi urges China, Brazil to better safeguard shared interests of Global South, jointly maintain UN's core role, intl fairness, justice in phone talks with Lula

• “We will not be subservient to hegemonic endeavors,” — Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, President of Brazil

Xi urges China, Brazil to better safeguard shared interests of Global South, jointly maintain UN's core role, intl fairness, justice in phone talks with Lula

• “It is crucial that the leaders of the major powers understand that a world of permanent hostility is not viable.” — Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, President of Brazil

Xi assures Brazil's Lula of China's support in 'turbulent' times

• “China is willing to remain a good friend and partner to Latin American and Caribbean countries,” — Xi Jinping, President of China

Xi assures Brazil's Lula of China's support in 'turbulent' times