Japan FM Hayashi: Tokyo supports Brazil President Lula's government

Japan's foreign minister has expressed support for Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva's government, following the storming of the Congress and other buildings by supporters of the former president.

Foreign Minister Hayashi Yoshimasa was in the Brazilian capital of Brasilia on Monday for talks with his counterpart Mauro Vieira.

Hayashi said democracy must not be threatened by force, referring to supporters of ex-President Jair Bolsonaro who stormed the Congress, the presidential palace and the Supreme Court.

Hayashi said Tokyo supports the democratically-elected president and his government.

The foreign ministers agreed that Japan and Brazil -- both non-permanent members of the UN Security Council this year -- will cooperate on reforming the council.

They also confirmed their commitment to maintaining and strengthening an international order based on the rule of law.

Other areas of cooperation discussed in the meeting included environmental issues, as well as more resilient supply chains for food, energy and mineral resources.

Speaking at a joint news conference, Hayashi said Japan is ready to work with Lula's government to shore up bilateral ties, and address a range of global issues.

Source: https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20230110_02/