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President Michael D. Higgins congratulates President elect of Brazil, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva

Date: Mon 31st Oct, 2022 | 09:51

The President of Ireland, Michael D. Higgins, has sent the below letter to the President elect of Brazil, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, congratulating him on his election victory.

 

31 October 2022

 

H.E. Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva

President-elect of Brazil

 

Dear President-elect da Silva, Luiz,

May I offer you my warmest congratulations, following your election as President of Brazil. I send these good wishes as President of Ireland and on behalf of the people of Ireland, following your election victory.

As I reflect on this significant moment, I recall our most recent meeting, exactly ten years ago in Sao Paulo, in October, 2012. The issues we discussed then remain at the forefront of my mind, including our shared concerns on global challenges - the very future of our planet and the protection of our environment, including the future of the Amazon. I know that under your leadership, the challenges facing you will be addressed with great wisdom and commitment.   I think especially now of the work of the Irish patriot and humanitarian, Roger Casement, for the rights of indigenous peoples in the Amazon region.

I look forward very much to continuing our excellent co-operation once you take office, and building on our warm and vibrant relations.  The links that have developed in recent years between our countries have been characterised by the energy and creativity of those Brazilians who have made their homes in Ireland while we in turn take pride in the Irish contribution to Brazil, mindful of the historic links rooted in our history, as well as in our educational and cultural lives.

The contribution of the Brazilian community in Ireland is rightly recognised in so many ways, but it is worth recalling the special role played by so many Brazilian health professionals and carers since the outbreak of the Covid pandemic in Ireland two and a half years ago, displaying such kindness and generosity of spirit to some of the most vulnerable in our society when so far from home themselves, during that very difficult time. 

May I express my strong hope that you will be able to visit Ireland on one of your first visits to Europe. I know that if you were able to accept this invitation – which would be the first visit of a Head of State between our two countries since my own visit to Brazil in 2012 – it would only succeed in deepening the historic bonds of friendship and collaboration between our peoples, as well as offering an opportunity to continue our own dialogue which I value so much.

With warm personal good wishes and wishing you every success over the time ahead.

 

Le gach dea ghuí,

Yours sincerely

 

 

Michael D. Higgins

Uachtarán na hÉireann

President of Ireland