Brazil ratifies free trade agreement with Palestinian Authority

BRASÍLIA: Brazil has ratified a free trade agreement (FTA) with the Palestinian Authority, demonstrating its support for the Palestinian people.

The agreement was initially signed in 2011 between the Mercosur trade bloc and the Palestinian Authority. It aims to foster economic development in Palestine and contribute to its ability to coexist peacefully with neighbouring states.

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Brazil’s foreign ministry issued a statement stating that the agreement is a significant contribution to building a viable Palestinian state capable of living in peace with its neighbours. The ministry believes that economic stability is essential for promoting lasting peace in the region.

The Palestinian ambassador to Brazil described Brazil’s decision as “courageous” and “timely”. He expressed hope that the agreement would enhance Palestine’s current trade relations with Mercosur, which currently amount to $32 million annually, and open up avenues for further economic cooperation.

Brazil officially recognised Palestinian statehood In December 2010 within the 1967 borders. It encompassed the West Bank, Gaza Strip, and East Jerusalem. The decision signaled Brazil’s support for Palestinian statehood, included calls to end the Gaza Strip blockade.

In 2015, further solidifying bilateral ties, Palestine established its embassy in Brasília, while Brazil secured an area in Ramallah for its diplomatic mission to Palestine.

However, following the 2018 Brazilian presidential election, Jair Bolsonaro, known for his pro-Israel stance, threatened to close the Palestinian embassy in Brazil, denying Palestine’s statehood status.

His administration’s decisions, such as opening a commercial office in Jerusalem and voting against Palestine in international forums, notably strained bilateral relations.

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Brazil’s stance at the International Criminal Court (ICC) and the World Health Organisation signaled the deterioration in Brazil-Palestine relations under Bolsonaro’s leadership.