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At a meeting with President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in London, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced on Friday (5/6) that the United Kingdom will contribute to the Amazon Fund, which is currently funded by Norway, Germany and the United States. .
Later, on Twitter, Sunak detailed the announcement, stating that the value would be £80 million (about R$500 million).
Lula and Sunak met behind closed doors in Downing Street, the official residence and office of the British Prime Minister.
The Labor Party member is in the UK to attend the coronation of King Charles III, which will take place on Saturday (5/6).
According to Sunak, “Besides football, we have a lot in common. I am pleased to announce on this occasion that we will invest in the Amazon Fund. It is a pleasure to have you here.”
In turn, Lula stated that his trip to the United Kingdom, in addition to the coronation ceremony, would serve as a gesture “to restore normalcy to relations between Brazil and the United Kingdom.”
He added: “We have good relations, but certainly very few in commercial relations.”
“The country has been isolated for six years. We now want to first resume the trade discussion, as there is huge potential to increase the flow.”
“Secondly, the climate issue. Brazil has significant reserves and has participated in climate meetings and committed to eliminating deforestation in the Amazon by 2030.”
“And what I have been saying to all the rich countries is to adhere to the agreements signed at the COP. The poorer countries need help to preserve their forests. I am very optimistic and grateful to be here. This bilateral cooperation is very important for us.” “Lola added.
The United Kingdom is the fourth country to contribute to the Amazon Fund.
In April this year, the United States announced that it would contribute US$500 million (R$2.5 billion) to the fund.
Norway remains the largest financier.
The Amazon Fund was launched in 2009 by the Nordic country to combat deforestation and encourage sustainable development.
The fund was reactivated in January this year, after the start of Lula's third term – it had been suspended in the first year of Jair Bolsonaro's government because Germany and Norway, major donors, did not agree with the management model.
From 2019 to 2022, deforestation in the Amazon increased by almost 60% compared to the previous four years.
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