With similar perspectives on combating climate change, the United Kingdom and Brazil are forming an unexpected alliance, with trade agreements also in the pipeline. The divergent positions on the conflict in Ukraine seem to be the only thorn in the relationship between Lula and Keir Starmer.
Amid uncertainty about Trump’s return and the cooler post-Brexit relationship with the European Union, the United Kingdom is forge an unexpected partnership with Brazil.
Since Starmer’s rise to power in July, the UK has intensified diplomatic efforts with Brazil, sending 12 ministers to the South American country, with a focus on combating the climate crisis. Nations have already announced joint initiatives, such as the Clean Energy Alliance — a coalition of 11 countries and the African Union with the goal of tripling renewable energy production by 2030.
This cooperation sets the stage for deeper collaboration ahead of COP30, the United Nations summit on the climate in 2025, which will take place in Belém, Brazil, says .
Both nations have ambitious climate goals: Brazil intends end illegal deforestation by 2030, while the UK seeks to almost eliminate fossil fuels from its electricity supply within the same timeframe.
In the midst of diplomatic negotiations, the two leaders also came together over the shared love for football. Lula and Starmer, both avid enthusiasts, found common ground when discussing the sport, with Starmer’s support for Arsenal — which has four Brazilian players — becoming a light-hearted icebreaker.
Trade discussions are also on the horizon. Brazil, the world’s tenth largest economy, has the potential to establish stronger economic ties with the United Kingdom, although current levels of trade are modest.
However, existing trade barriers, such as the slow progress of the free trade agreement trade between the EU and Mercosurserve as a warning. European farmers’ concerns about competition from Brazilian imports highlight the complexities that Starmer has to face, especially when managing the interests of national producers.
Although they are aligned on climate goals, the alliance faces challenges in foreign policy alignment, particularly with regard to war in Ukraine. The United Kingdom continues to firmly support Ukraine, providing military aid, while Lula has advocated a negotiated solution, citing Brazil’s dependence on Russian fertilizers and its economic ties to China.
This burgeoning partnership comes at a time when traditional global alliances face uncertainty. Brazil’s role as a bridge between richer and developing nations offers a unique strategic advantage.
