A scenic view of the cityscape in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in September 2024 Photo: Cao Siqi/GT
 

A senior Brazilian government advisor highlighted China's significant contributions to the global human rights cause through its economic system, which has enabled millions of people to get rid of poverty. 

In an exclusive interview with the Global Times, Rafael Gontijo, a senior advisor of the BRICS Parliamentary Front at the National Congress of Brazil, noted that Latin America should look to China as an example of overcoming the challenges inherent in poverty.

China is an "indispensable partner for Latin America" in various strategic areas, and the Chinese investments in the region will yield positive results, he said. 

"China's presence in the region, through direct investments, will become even more significant, fostering technological development and job creation in Latin America," he said.

New energy collaboration between Latin America and China is gaining momentum. Latin America boasts significant solar resources and is emerging as one of the most promising photovoltaic (PV) markets globally. According to InfoLink statistics, the region's PV demand in 2023 ranged from 24.8 to 27.4 gigawatts, with Brazil leading the market, followed by Chile and Mexico, the Xinhua News Agency reported in November. 

China declared a "complete victory" in eradicating absolute poverty in 2021, which has lifted 800 million people out of poverty, and met the poverty reduction target of the UN's 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development 10 years ahead of schedule, a miracle that Gontijo felt impressive. 

Gontijo also noted that what impressed him profoundly is that China's economic prosperity has not only provided its citizens with access to a superior educational system and quality healthcare but has also established one of the world's most modern and efficient transportation systems, thereby realizing human rights in practice.

Meanwhile, the voices of the Global South are gaining a greater spotlight in recent years as they are crucial in today's world because they represent a significant portion of the global population and contribute to the diversity of perspectives that shape international policies and decisions. 

The senior Brazilian advisor stressed the importance of the Global South's voices in global governance, stating that global challenges cannot be adequately addressed without the effective decision-making power of these countries. 

A multipolar world order is essential for achieving peace, prosperity, and mitigating the effects of climate change, with China playing a leadership role among Global South countries due to its economic relevance and respect for diversity, he noted.

"China's commitment to promoting peace and development in Global South countries is seen as exemplary, with the Chinese leader recognized as a great global leader for his promotion of respect for diversity and prioritization of economic development for sustainable peace," he said.

Gontijo believes that without job and income generation, long-term peace is unattainable, especially in contexts of hunger and severe economic instability.

As this year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of relations between China and Brazil, the Brazilian government advisor expressed his optimism about the development of bilateral ties. 

He noted the impressive consolidation of ties between the two nations. China became Brazil's largest trading partner in 2009, a position it has maintained since then. Trade relations are strategic for both countries, with China being a major partner in Brazil's infrastructure sector and Brazil playing an important role in ensuring China's food security. 

Gontijo is "confident" that the commercial relationship will continue to grow, especially with the increasing importance of BRICS.

In November, China and Brazil announced an elevation of bilateral ties to "a community of shared future for a more just world and a more sustainable planet." The announcement was further bolstered by the commitment to align the Belt and Road Initiative proposed by China with Brazil's development strategies, Xinhua reported.