The Brazilian President, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, is finalizing plans for a state visit to Japan next month, with the itinerary slated from March 24 to 27. This visit is particularly significant, as it will be the first state guest appearance in Japan since U.S. President Donald Trump’s visit in May 2019. The occasion also commemorates the 130th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Japan and Brazil.
During his visit, Lula is expected to begin his schedule by arriving in Japan on March 24, followed by a meeting with Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako on the next day. The agenda also includes a dinner reception at the Imperial Palace, setting the stage for several high-profile diplomatic interactions. On March 26, Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba is scheduled to meet with Lula, during which the two leaders are anticipated to issue a joint statement emphasizing the importance of maintaining and strengthening the international order.
Lula is expected to be accompanied by a delegation of around 100 individuals, including key business executives who will engage with their Japanese counterparts. The meetings among these business leaders are intended to discuss potential investments in Brazil—a sector that suffered a significant downturn due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, both governments are negotiating to seal multiple economic memorandums that cover innovative fields such as resource development, progress towards a carbon-free future, and enhancements in medical care.