“The close ties between our two countries are more necessary than ever at a time when the world order is undergoing such fundamental changes,” Merz said on Monday alongside the Brazilian leader. “We share an interest in an international order in which we can rely on agreements and treaties, and in which we are capable of working together to tackle even global problems.”
Merz’s pledge for increased cooperation with Brazil comes as Germany’s struggling, export-oriented economy faces further headwinds amid the fallout of the U.S.-Israel war with Iran.
“The repercussions will not stop at America’s doorstep,” Merz said of the war in the Middle East. “All of this is currently jeopardizing economic development around the world and could lead to further political destabilization far beyond the Middle East.”
Lula said Brazil and Germany would work together to establish more independence in a technology sector dominated by U.S. firms.
“We are interested in developing digital infrastructure such as data centers, high-performance computers, and semiconductors,” said Lula. “We no longer want to be dependent on foreign companies that enrich themselves at the expense of our citizens’ data—without any guarantees regarding privacy and security.”
Among the 13 agreements struck between Berlin and Brasília during consultations held Monday are declarations of intent on cooperation in defense procurement, quantum computing, and critical and strategic minerals.