During his visit to Brazil, French President Emmanuel Macron and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva’s close relationship sparked excitement on social media. The two leaders were seen smiling and embracing warmly during a trip to the Amazon rainforest. The images of their interaction have gone viral on social media in Brazil, with users creating montages and funny comments about their friendship.
One photo of the leaders raising their arms under a tree has been edited to show them holding red heart-shaped balloons. Another image shows them holding hands and smiling while on a boat in the Amazon River. Some users joked about the possibility of Macron and Lula getting married in the Amazon and having their honeymoon in Paris, while others said the photos could be a wedding album.
Despite some initial strains in their relationship due to differing views on issues such as deforestation, Macron’s positive rapport with Lula is a contrast to his previous strained relationship with Brazil’s former president Jair Bolsonaro. During his visit, the two leaders announced a billion-dollar green investment plan for the Amazon, acknowledging the importance of France and Brazil’s roles in the global geopolitical landscape.
France and Brazil are both significant players in the international arena, with interests in aligning with emerging economies and amplifying their voices. Paris views Brasilia as a key connection to expanding its influence, especially as Brazil holds the presidency of the G20 and is a member of the BRICS+ group. Macron’s visit concludes with a meeting at the presidential palace in Brasilia, continuing to strengthen the ties between France and Brazil.