Speaking during a recent celebration in SA, the Ambassador expressed his pride in representing Brazil on the continent and highlighted the significant influence Africa has had on Brazilian society.
“It is truly an honour to represent Brazil in SA and to take part in this celebration. Nearly half of Brazil’s population is of African descent. We often say at the embassy; there is no Brazil without Africa,” he said. “The African presence is everywhere in our culture, our food, our language, and our way of life. It is part of who we are.”
Fonseca Filho emphasised Brazil’s commitment to working with African nations towards shared goals, particularly in development and global participation. He drew parallels between the countries of the Global South, noting their shared histories, multicultural make-up, and common aspirations.
“We are united by our circumstances. Brazil and Africa are both multiracial societies with great potential and complex challenges. We identify with Africa’s journey, its past struggle for liberation and its present pursuit of development. Brazil stands ready to be part of that journey. You can count on us.”
Commenting on SA’s assumption of the G20 Presidency, taking over from Brazil, Fonseca Filho commended SA’s leadership and pointed out the importance of the G20 in addressing global issues.
“What SA is doing is not just for itself or even just for Africa. It is for the Global South and, ultimately, for the world,” he said. “The priorities on the G20 agenda, climate change, development, the fight against hunger, are urgent and universal. We believe in shared prosperity. No one should be left behind.”
He expressed Brazil’s willingness to continue working closely with SA to ensure that the G20 delivers meaningful outcomes, especially for developing nations.
Touching on the broader role of international groupings such as Brazil, Russia, India, China and SA (BRICS), the Ambassador stressed the importance of cooperation, inclusivity, and sustained dialogue in a world increasingly marked by division and nationalism.
“The causes we defend, quality, inclusivity, development, are human causes. We are on the right side of history,” he said. “We must use platforms like BRICS and the G20 not for confrontation, but to build consensus and move forward together.”
He added that solidarity among Global South nations should be grounded in human connection and mutual understanding.
“When people see each other as human beings and not as stereotypes, we build the foundation for lasting co-operation. That is key to our success, not only as countries but as a global community.”
In response to recent diplomatic tensions during a high-profile visit by SA’s President to the White House, Fonseca Filho refrained from commenting in detail but expressed hope for stronger international partnerships.
“We wish for healthy, productive relations between SA and all nations, including the United States. It’s through co-operation that we can contribute to peace and shared development. We see the recent meeting as a positive step in that direction.”
Ambassador Fonseca Filho concluded by reaffirming his personal dedication to strengthening ties between Brazil and Africa; “It is a great pleasure to be here and to contribute to this collective mission. Our commitment is firm, and our partnership is strong.”
--ChannelAfrica--
