In December 2008, I began my journey as Ambassador to Brazil with a speech in Sao Paulo. And this Wednesday, I am visiting the city again for a presentation named “Brazil and the world need each other”, which ends my time in this position.
It could not be more appropriate to take this discussion to a region of such national and international importance, home to influential businesspeople and institutions in all areas.
My presentation is based on my impressions during these four and a half years in office. I had the opportunity to witness big changes around here. In the financial crisis of 2008-2009, the world understood that we needed to join forces to overcome difficult times; and Brazil was able to benefit from it. I witnessed a breakthrough that made the country the sixth global economy, increasing the world’s confidence in them. Currently, Brazil is the country that attracts the most UK investments in the world!
The population also gave their vote of confidence and today enjoys low unemployment rates and higher purchasing power, which has increased Brazilian middle class’s access to foreign countries.
During my time in Brazil, I also saw the changes that resulted from an increase in the number of internet users – with an amazing impact on society as a whole. Examples such as President Dilma Rousseff’s electoral campaign and the “Ficha Limpa” (Clean Slate) initiative illustrate the strength of this powerful tool.
This new context led to a growth in Brazilians’ expectations for better education, health, infrastructure, security and public services. Seeking global alliances has become an even more vital tool for social and economic development. That is why the United Kingdom has increasingly encouraged the exchange of experiences between our countries, with a record increase in the number of business and political visits to Brazil year after year.
But the world also needs Brazil. Global impact issues, such as combating poverty, preserving the environment and increasing world trade can benefit significantly from Brazil’s involvement.
This country – “Giant by Nature” – has much to offer and much to gain from closer relations with the rest of the world.