French President Emmanuel Macron is set to embark on a high-stakes diplomatic journey to Brazil from March 26-28, amidst simmering tensions over trade and environmental policies. The visit, accepted following an invitation from President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, comes at a critical juncture as the European Union struggles to finalize a trade deal with the South American Mercosur bloc.
France, led by Macron, has emerged as the primary obstacle to the trade agreement, voicing strong opposition due to concerns over its potential impact on European farmers. Macron’s stance has been so firm that he personally intervened with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in January, demanding a freeze on negotiations.
The contentious relationship between Macron and Lula was highlighted last October when Lula publicly criticized Macron’s trade policies and even complained about the food served at a banquet in Paris. Despite these tensions, Macron’s upcoming visit is expected to include a large business delegation, indicating a desire to strengthen economic ties.
Before reaching Brazil, Macron will make a stop in French Guiana, a French overseas territory crucial for European Space Agency’s rocket launches. This visit underscores France’s strategic interests in the region beyond trade, highlighting the complexity of Macron’s diplomatic balancing act.
As Macron navigates this delicate dance in Brazil, the outcome could have far-reaching implications for the EU-Mercosur trade negotiations and broader French-Brazilian relations.
(Source: Politico Europe)
