Former Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Chilean President Gabriel Boric have announced the organization of a meeting of progressive leaders in defense of democracy. The initiative arises in response to the proposal by Claudia Sheinbaum and Gustavo Petro to build an alternative pole in the region following the failure of a similar call by Lula.
In a conversation between Lula and Boric, they agreed to deepen commercial and cultural ties between Brazil and Chile, as well as seek greater joint growth. This announcement took other Latin American leaders by surprise, such as Sheinbaum and Petro, who may also join the meeting.
Lula, who had previously attempted to convene a Unasur summit without success, seeks to lead the strengthening of regional integration, especially in a context where Donald Trump's presidency in the United States poses challenges.
The meeting of progressive leaders aims to defend democracy, science, respect for human rights, and work on behalf of the most vulnerable sectors of society. This move becomes significant following the cancellation of the Celac summit due to a lack of consensus, leaving the discussion about the crisis triggered by deportations during Trump's administration pending.
The call from Lula and Boric reflects an attempt by progressive sectors to regain regional leadership that has been a topic of debate in recent times. Despite uncertainty regarding the participation of other leaders, the meeting is expected to contribute to strengthening integration in Latin America and the Caribbean, especially at a time of challenges such as the fight against inequality and the promotion of sustainable development.
