What role can academic Lusophony play as a bridge for Brazil’s integration into Asian university networks, especially through Macau?
Alexandre Coelho – Academic Lusophony offers Brazil a strategic channel of engagement with the Asian university environment, with Macau as an institutional and cultural bridge. The active role of the University of Macau in this process reinforces the role of Lusophony as a diplomatic instrument and a vector for the qualified internationalisation of Brazilian higher education.
In your opinion, how are international relations teaching and research in Brazil adapting to China’s rise as a global power?
A.C. – The teaching and research of international relations in Brazil are gradually incorporating China’s rise as a central topic. The expansion of courses on Asia, the increase in specialised publications, and the creation of study units focused on China indicate an ongoing adaptation, driven both by strategic interest and the need to train analysts capable of working in an increasingly multipolar international system.
What role can independent think tanks, such as Observa China, play in strengthening Brazil–China relations beyond official diplomacy?
A.C. – Independent *think tanks* like Observa China play an essential role by promoting qualified knowledge, strategic analysis, and dialogue between civil societies. Operating with agility and autonomy, they are able to anticipate trends and formulate concrete cooperation proposals. They are instruments of mutual trust and long-term cooperation, especially in times of global uncertainty.
You were the guest editor of the most recent issue of the Macau Journal of Brazilian Studies (MJBS). Could you summarise the objectives of this publication by the Brazilian Studies Association in Macau?
A.C. – The *Macau Journal of Brazilian Studies* aims to be an international reference forum dedicated to the promotion of in-depth studies on Brazil and its relations with China, through multiple analytical approaches. The published articles are aimed at a qualified academic audience, especially in China, with the goal of expanding knowledge about Brazil and fostering intellectual dialogue between the two countries. I would like to thank Professor Wei Dan, editor-in-chief of the MJBS and professor at the University of Macau, for the invitation. I would also like to emphasise that MY views here do not represent those of MJBS or Observa China.
What were the focus areas of the most recent issue of the MJBS?
A.C. – This special issue investigates the evolving dynamics of Brazil–China relations in the face of pressing global challenges and opportunities. We selected studies that reflect the multifaceted nature of Brazil–China cooperation, offering valuable perspectives on the trajectory of this strategic partnership.
The articles address topics such as: technological partnerships in semiconductors and ICTs; the impact of Trump’s re-election on Brazil’s trade relations; energy transition and sustainable use of minerals; comparative river transport between Brazil and China; the Lula Government’s foreign policy toward China; Chinese investments in environmental projects in Brazil; and a comparative analysis of China’s zero-Covid policy on Brazilian and European companies.
Considering the published studies, what are the challenges and opportunities in Brazil–China relations amid the geopolitical, technological, and environmental transformations shaping the 21st century?
A.C. – Brazil–China relations, in the context of the 21st century’s geopolitical, technological, and environmental transformations, combine structural challenges and strategic opportunities. Among the main obstacles are Brazil’s excessive dependence on commodities, the technological asymmetry between the two countries, and the geoeconomic pressures intensified by U.S.–China rivalry. However, promising opportunities also arise, such as expanding cooperation in renewable energy, integrating Brazil into global technological chains, valuing Brazil as an agricultural supplier amid the trade war, and strengthening institutional mechanisms like COSBAN \[Sino-Brazilian High-Level Commission for Coordination and Cooperation]. How Brazil manages these dynamics will determine its level of autonomy and leadership in an increasingly multipolar and fragmented international order.
One of the published studies focuses on “Challenges of the New Trump Administration: Risks, Opportunities, and Institutional Roles in Brazil–China Relations.” How would you describe Brazil’s institutional responses and strategic positioning under the renewed U.S.–China tensions?
A.C. – Faced with renewed U.S.–China tensions under the Trump Administration, Brazil has responded with a pragmatic diplomatic strategy aimed at preserving its autonomy. Instead of automatically aligning with either power, it has strengthened its partnership with China through institutions such as COSBAN and bilateral strategic plans that ensure stability and continuity in relations. It has also advanced monetary cooperation by using the renminbi, reducing reliance on the dollar. These institutional responses allow Brazil to remain relevant on the international stage, diversify partnerships, and protect its interests in an increasingly polarised global environment.
Do you believe that global geopolitical instability is accelerating or hindering academic and scientific cooperation between Brazil and China? Which knowledge sectors have the most potential for progress in this context?
A.C. – Geopolitical instability has not hindered but rather redirected cooperation between Brazil and China toward more pragmatic and strategic channels. Fields such as international relations, semiconductors, telecommunications, clean energy, sustainable agriculture, and logistics infrastructure are emerging as high-potential sectors. The pursuit of technological autonomy and economic security has spurred bilateral initiatives in science and innovation, supported by universities, research centres, and intergovernmental forums.
Does Macau still play a very minor role in Brazil–China relations? What could be done to improve in this area?
A.C. – Macau still plays a discreet role in educational and academic relations between Brazil and China, despite its great potential as a bridge between China and the Portuguese-speaking countries. The University of Macau has shown strong interest in deepening ties with Brazilian institutions, promoting academic exchanges, joint projects, and strategic partnerships. There is, therefore, a promising opportunity to expand this cooperation, especially in the context of higher education internationalisation and Macau’s integration into the Greater Bay Area. Strengthening these ties can contribute to greater Brazilian inclusion in academic networks in Asia and to the development of innovative projects within the Lusophone world.
