Lula and Sánchez to ‘work for peace’ at gathering of progressive leaders in Barcelona
AP News • • world
Key Points:
- Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez began a two-day visit in Spain, focusing on defending democracy and countering the rise of the populist far right.
- Both leaders criticized U.S. and Israeli actions against Iran, advocating for peace and a reinforced multilateral order, with Spain restricting U.S. military use of its airspace and bases related to the Iran conflict.
- Lula and Sánchez signed 15 bilateral agreements covering trade, satellite connections, and rare earth exploitation, emphasizing cooperation between Brazil and Spain.
- The visit precedes two major gatherings in Barcelona: the IV Meeting in Defense of Democracy, featuring leaders from multiple countries, and the inaugural Global Progressive Mobilization, aimed at rallying left-leaning politicians and policymakers.
- Experts view these events as a demonstration of middle powers uniting to uphold democratic values and counteract far-right populism amid a global landscape dominated by superpowers.
