During his first day of visit to Brazil on Tuesday (March 26), French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized, in the presence of President Lula, the plans of both governments to establish a binational conservation unit encompassing Brazil and French Guiana – the French overseas territory that borders Brazil in the state of Amapá.
The unit will serve as a reference center for scientific research aimed at sustainable development. President Macron announced that both countries will invest 2 billion dollars in the project.
In a statement titled “Brazil-France Call for Climate Ambition from Paris to Belém and Beyond,” the countries expressed their joint commitment to combat deforestation, protect the Amazon, restore and sustainably manage tropical forests, and develop the bioeconomy, which includes exploring “innovative financing mechanisms.”
Upon arriving in Belém, Lula and Macron boarded a Navy boat heading to Combu Island, located on the southern bank of the Guamá River. The trip involved crossing the river and navigating through a network of streams, allowing the two leaders to observe the preserved Amazon rainforest. During the visit, they witnessed a demonstration of the artisanal production of cocoa and chocolate from the region.
In Combu, Chief Raoni Metuktire, a prominent leader of the Kayapó people and one of the most internationally recognized indigenous representatives, was honored by President Macron with the award of Knight of the French Legion of Honor.
“Dear Raoni, this moment is dedicated to you. You have visited France several times, and I promised to come here, to your forest, to be with you. This forest, so coveted and defended by you for decades. Today, President Lula and I are united with one of our friends,” Macron said in a speech before presenting the medal to the indigenous chief.
Source: Agência Brasil