Lula said that the two nations will prioritize cooperation in sustainable development, infrastructure, finance, energy transition and space exploration as part of broader steps to elevate relations to new heights.

He noted that China is Brazil's largest partner for trade and investment, and that Chinese companies have strongly facilitated his country's socioeconomic development.

Brazil is China's ninth-largest trading partner. China is Brazil's largest trading partner, with trade reaching $181.53 billion in 2023, a 6.1 percent year-on-year increase, according to China's Foreign Ministry.

Lula mentioned the two nations' highly aligned positions over major international development and security issues. "In a world marred by armed conflicts and geopolitical tensions, Brazil and China have consistently prioritized peaceful diplomacy and dialogue," he said.

Ana Celia Castro, a senior fellow at the Brazilian Center for International Relations, said it is significant for Brazil and China to align their development strategies for more concrete results. "We need an umbrella to embrace all activities together, covering various aspects including education, culture and economy," she said, adding that she believes that such an umbrella could be the BRI.

Contact the writers at xuwei@chinadaily.com.cn