Emerging powers discuss military cooperation
Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has called for closer defence cooperation between Brazil and South Africa, warning that emerging economies must strengthen their military preparedness to guard against potential external threats.
Lula made the remarks during a joint media briefing with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa at the Planalto Palace in Brasília on 9 March 2026. The comments came as Ramaphosa began a two-day state visit to Brazil aimed at reinforcing political and economic ties between the two countries.
According to South Africa’s Presidency, the visit provided an opportunity for both leaders to review bilateral relations and exchange views on regional security, global governance and economic cooperation among developing nations.
During the briefing, Lula stressed that Brazil and South Africa should work together to build their own defence capabilities rather than relying heavily on international arms suppliers.
“We must combine our potential and explore what we can produce and build together,” Lula said, suggesting that joint industrial development in the defence sector could benefit both countries.
He added that failing to prepare adequately for national defence could leave nations vulnerable. “If we do not strengthen our defence capacity, one day someone could invade us,” he said.
Shared perspectives on global security
The comments come at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions in several regions of the world. Both Lula and Ramaphosa have previously expressed concern about the escalation of conflict involving Iran and have criticised the military campaign carried out by the United States and Israel.
Lula framed defence cooperation as part of a broader strategy for safeguarding the sovereignty of emerging economies. In South America, he noted, the region has long sought to maintain peace and stability, with no country possessing nuclear weapons.
“We present ourselves as a region of peace,” Lula said. “Because of that, defence is understood primarily as a form of deterrence.”
Ramaphosa responded by acknowledging Brazil’s more advanced defence and aerospace industries, describing them as areas where South Africa could benefit from greater cooperation and knowledge exchange.
“Brazil is much more advanced than us in defence and aviation,” Ramaphosa said. “There is much we can learn from each other, and we also have experience to share.”
Defence ministers from both countries were expected to meet during the visit to begin discussions on a possible cooperation agreement aimed at strengthening military and industrial collaboration.
Historical ties and diplomatic partnership
Beyond defence, the visit also highlighted the long-standing political relationship between Brazil and South Africa. Both nations are influential voices among emerging economies and cooperate within multilateral forums such as BRICS.
Ramaphosa used the occasion to reflect on South Africa’s 30 years of constitutional democracy and to acknowledge Brazil’s support during the anti-apartheid struggle.
“We remain deeply grateful for the solidarity of the Brazilian people during our fight for freedom,” he said, noting that international support played an important role in South Africa’s democratic transition.
The South African president also addressed ongoing global conflicts, including renewed tensions in the Middle East. He reiterated calls for peaceful dispute resolution in line with the United Nations Charter and condemned attacks that result in civilian casualties and the destruction of infrastructure.
Ramaphosa further praised Lula’s leadership in strengthening the strategic partnership between the two countries, emphasising shared commitments to economic growth, social equality and poverty reduction.
The state visit forms part of broader efforts by both governments to deepen cooperation across political, economic and industrial sectors while expanding collaboration among major developing economies.
