Brazil, France Discuss US Tariffs, Mercosur-EU Deal Finalization

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and French President Emmanuel Macron held an hour-long phone conversation focusing on global and bilateral issues, notably the Mercosur-European Union trade agreement and U.S. tariffs on Brazilian goods. Lula condemned the political use of U.S. tariffs against Brazil and briefed Macron on Brazil’s appeal to the World Trade Organization regarding these tariffs. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to finalizing the long-awaited Mercosur-EU trade deal during Brazil's presidency of Mercosur, with Macron emphasizing the need to protect French and European agricultural interests. They also pledged to boost cooperation between developed nations and the Global South, advocating for trade based on multilateral rules. On climate change, Lula highlighted Brazil’s ambitious targets and urged the EU to adopt commensurate goals, with Macron confirming his attendance at the COP30 conference in Brazil. Additionally, the two discussed peace efforts in Ukraine and agreed to deepen cooperation on defense and transport projects.