Vietnam and Brazil deepen cooperation ahead of COP30

On the morning of November 3, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Environment Le Cong Thanh received Brazilian Ambassador to Vietnam Marco Farani.

Deputy Minister Le Cong Thanh highlighted that following the visit to Brazil by Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh in March 2025, the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment of Vietnam proactively implemented numerous substantive cooperation activities with relevant Brazilian agencies. Fields such as agriculture, environmental protection, and green transition are not only priorities for the two ministries but are also important pillars in the Action Plan for the Vietnam-Brazil Strategic Partnership for the 2025–2030 period.

Regarding the upcoming 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) to be held in Brazil later this year, the Deputy Minister welcomed the global initiatives proposed by the Brazilian Government, including the "Together to Act" Declaration aimed at fostering international cooperation on forest protection and climate change response. Deputy Minister Le Cong Thanh praised Brazil's pioneering role in calling for the sharing of data, technology, and experience in forest fire prevention and control, risk management, and post-fire ecosystem restoration—challenges that are increasing globally, especially in countries with large forest areas. Vietnam also acknowledged Brazil’s efforts in promoting integrated and sustainable forest management, valuing the role of local communities and indigenous peoples, who serve as frontline forces in protecting natural resources.

Additionally, the Deputy Minister lauded Brazil’s initiative to establish a Climate Change and Trade Integration Forum within the framework of COP30. He remarked that this initiative demonstrates strategic foresight, reflecting an inevitable trend as nations move toward green development, a circular economy, emission reduction, and deep economic integration. This Forum, according to the Deputy Minister, will be a crucial space for connecting climate policy with trade through sharing standards, technology, and financial mechanisms to support developing countries, while encouraging businesses to participate more deeply in the global green value chain. "I believe the Forum will become an effective bridge between international economic and environmental institutions, contributing to accelerating the transition of growth models and ensuring harmony between economic and environmental interests," he stressed.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Environment of Vietnam is currently establishing an inter-ministerial working group to attend COP30 alongside relevant ministries and agencies, demonstrating Vietnam's commitment to global cooperation on climate and sustainable development.

During the reception, Ambassador Marco Farani presented a letter of invitation from the Brazilian Minister of Agriculture and Livestock to the leadership of the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment of Vietnam, inviting their participation in the launch of a key initiative on the sidelines of COP30. The Ambassador stated that the two countries have achieved significant progress recently in opening agricultural markets. Vietnam has opened its market for Brazilian beef exports, while Brazil has opened its market for Vietnamese tilapia and tra fish (basa). Currently, two Brazilian companies are authorized to export beef to Vietnam, and Brazil hopes that more qualified companies will be able to enter the market. The Ambassador suggested that expanding the list of Brazilian beef exporters to Vietnam will increase competition and diversify supply, directly benefiting consumers. He also expressed hope for support from the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment to facilitate and streamline the procedures. In response, Deputy Minister Le Cong Thanh acknowledged the proposals and opinions from Brazil, assigning the Department of International Cooperation to coordinate with the Ministry’s specialized units for continued exchanges with the Brazilian side.