France will help Brazil develop nuclear-powered submarines, Macron says

On Wednesday, President Emmanuel Macron and his counterpart Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva commemorated the unveiling of Brazil's third submarine, designed by the French. This submarine is aimed at safeguarding the large coastline of Brazil, which is referred to as the "Blue Amazon."

Published on: March 27, 2024 at 6:03 PM Updated on: March 27, 2024 at 6:10 PM

During a ceremony at the high-tech naval base in Itaguai, near Rio de Janeiro, two gentlemen emphasized the significance of their nations' defense alliance amidst worldwide crisis.

In this location, Brazil constructed the Tonelero which is the third out of the four expected traditional diesel attack submarines. The creation process was aided with France's guidance and provision of training and technical equipment.

The submarine was named by the First Lady, Rosangela da Silva, who is also known as "Janja," while the sky was covered with clouds.

Lula stated that the collaboration between France and Brazil in regards to defense would aid in the preparation for dealing with adversities. This partnership would provide assurance in maintaining peace, as both countries are advocates for it. Additionally, it is noteworthy that they are from different continents.

Although they have disagreements, particularly regarding the conflict in Ukraine, Macron acknowledged that "Brazil and France are both major powers committed to peace" and share a similar outlook on global issues.

Macron is currently touring Brazil, which is a significant economic partner for his country. His visit started on Tuesday, and he has introduced a scheme aimed at raising more than one billion dollars in eco-friendly investments to safeguard the Amazonian regions of Brazil and Guyana.

The trip, which marks the first instance of a French president visiting the huge economic power of Latin America in over 10 years, is intended to improve relations that had significantly deteriorated during the previous presidency of Jair Bolsonaro.

Macron and Lula had a friendly encounter in the Amazon, where they were photographed with smiles on their faces while holding hands amidst the trees. As a result, social media was flooded with humorous memes featuring their close relationship.

The pleasant atmosphere, which is very different from the time when Bolsonaro insulted Macron's spouse, continued on Wednesday during the launch of the submarine.

Brazil is looking to protect its vast economic zone known as the "blue Amazon," which covers over 8,500 kilometers of coastline. This area is crucial because it accounts for 95 percent of the country's foreign trade, and 95 percent of its oil extraction takes place here. Brazil is therefore implementing measures to ensure the safety and security of this significant portion of its economy.

The creation of the underwater vehicles was specified in a contract made in 2008 by Lula and ex-president of France, Nicolas Sarkozy, which also comprised of the procurement of 50 Caracal helicopters.

The Angostura, which is the fourth submarine, is scheduled to be launched in the year 2025.

France Avoids Nuclear Sub Controversy

Brazil has also decided to construct its inaugural nuclear-powered submarine, which will be known as the Alvaro Alberto. However, the progress of this project has been put on hold due to significant delays, specifically caused by financial limitations.

Naval Group, the French company specializing in naval defense, is providing aid for the creation and building of the submarine; however, the nuclear boiler's design is being handled by the Brazilian team.

Nevertheless, Brasilia is attempting to persuade Paris to boost the sharing of technology to support the assimilation of the reactor into the submarine. Additionally, Brasilia aims to sell equipment that is associated with nuclear propulsion.

France has been hesitant to hand over this type of technology because of the difficulty in preventing the spread of nuclear weapons.

Lula expressed that Brazil's interest in obtaining knowledge about nuclear technology is not for the purpose of engaging in war. In fact, the objective is to show other countries that Brazil is committed to promoting peace and will support them in their pursuit of it.

During the production of nuclear-powered submarines, Macron assured Brazil that France would offer support without specifying how.

He stated that he wishes for us to commence a new era for submarines... one where we confront nuclear propulsion with full consideration of our obligations for preventing its spread.

On Wednesday, Macron made his way to Sao Paulo, the hub of economic activity in the region. While there, he strongly criticized the free trade agreement that has been in limbo between the European Union and the Mercosur bloc of South America.

French President Macron expressed strong opposition to the current agreement that has faced significant resistance from European farmers during an economic forum held in the southeastern city. He stated that the deal is unfavorable for both parties involved and requires better negotiation.

He suggested creating a fresh treaty that takes into account the environment's needs such as progress, weather, and the diversity of living organisms. The talks for this agreement were first initiated 25 years ago.

In 2019, there was an agreement made, but it didn't get approved because some countries, like France, were against it. Meanwhile, other countries like Spain, Germany, and Brazil supported it.