France wants to strengthen its links with Brazil and Chile. That is why it is sending its Trade Minister, Olivier Becht, to visit these two countries from 5 to 9 June. It will also provide an opportunity to prepare for a meeting between the French President, Emmanuel Macron, and the Chilean President, Gabriel Boric, later in the year.
France wants to take greater advantage of the economic potential present in Chile and Brazil, particularly in the context of the climate transition. However, a source close to the Minister points out that the visit to Brazil is not an opportunity to negotiate the EU-Mercosur agreement (see EUROPE 13188/3).
“France’s position is clear and we will reaffirm it without difficulty”, this source told EUROPE. He added that the subject will, despite everything, surely be raised by several players.
Mr Becht will meet members of the governments of both countries, and will be accompanied on the trip by French research operators and companies active in the recovery and use of metals. (Original version in French by Léa Marchal)