(From left) Johari, Quintella, Mohd Ali and Rafizi. — SS KANESAN/The Star
IT was a carnival atmosphere at the 201st Brazil Independence Day reception in Kuala Lumpur, testimony to the close ties between Brazil and Malaysia.
The host for the night, Brazilian ambassador Ary Norton de Murat Quintella, announced that the beef and chicken served at the reception was 100% Brazilian halal meat.
“Please enjoy it!” said the affable envoy.
The special guest was Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli.
In his address, the envoy highlighted the positive developments in bilateral ties between Brazil and Malaysia over the past year.
He expressed optimism that the future was bright for both countries.
“This Sept 7 marks the celebration of the first cycle of a new government in Brazil, one that is reconciling economic growth with social inclusion.
“While reconciling the nation, Brazil is prioritising health, education, science and technology, culture and the environment.
“It gives me great pleasure to acknowledge that Malaysia too is walking the same path under the leadership of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who has also emphasised robust social policies and empowering the ‘rakyat’.
“I dare say that conditions were never as good as they are today for our countries to develop closer relations,” he said.
Quintella cited the environment as one area in which both countries could develop deeper collaboration, saying that Brazil would host the 30th UN Conference on Climate Change (COP30) in Belem, capital of the state of Para, in November 2025.
“This may be our last chance to secure a stable climate for Planet Earth.
“Brazil will lead by example and is willing to work together with all countries in the world.
“With Malaysia, we can deepen our exchange of experiences concerning rainforest protection and sustainable management,” he added.
Among the dignitaries at the reception were Melaka Yang di-Pertua Negri Tun Mohd Ali Rustam and Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul.
