Foreign Secretary promises long-term UK commitment to Brazil
The UK Government prizes its friendship with Brazil and is determined to develop it further. This was the message delivered by Foreign Secretary William Hague as he began his first official visit to Latin America yesterday.
It is in this spirit and for this reason that the UK supports Brazil's aspiration for a permanent seat on a reformed Security Council, as a strong global partner in maintaining international peace and security.
William Hague said:
"The UK - Brazil partnership is founded on excellent cooperation in education, business, climate change, culture and much more. We promised to escalate our relationship with Brazil this past year, and we have, with more high-level visits, a new Consulate General in Recife and new partnerships being forged.
"In 2012 we will be sharing the international stage, with the Rio +20 climate change conference, London Olympic and Paralympic Games and then as we pass the torch to Brazil in September. I am pleased to be making my first official visit at such a time.
"The fact that we are increasing our resources here when spending overall is decreasing illustrates the value that we attribute to our relationships in Brazil and, indeed, the wider region. We are determined to see this continue in the months and years ahead."
Whilst in Brazil, the Foreign Secretary will be meeting representatives of British companies based there and hearing about the opportunities for investment. The UK now has a target in place to double UK exports by 2015 which, although ambitious, is already on track to be achieved.
Strengthening relations with Emerging Powers, particularly Brazil, is a foreign policy priority for the UK Government. It is essential for the UK's continued prosperity and security as the balance of power in the world shifts.
As Brazil develops, the opportunities for cooperation grow, and many of the UK's strengths match demand in Brazil, for example in education, science and innovation, creative industries and financial services. As 2012 continues, the UK will be looking to build on these strengths for the benefit of both countries.
To get involved in our Brazil Working Group, or find out more about our promotional activity in Brazil, please contact us.
