Brazil, South Africa reach defense pact

BRASILIA, March 11 (Xinhua) -- Brazil and South Africa have reached a defense cooperation agreement, following an official visit by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa to Brazil, the official Brazilian gazette reported Wednesday.

The agreement promotes research, development, and logistical support. It also facilitates high-level delegation visits, military personnel exchanges, and joint participation in military seminars and courses.

A Joint Defense Committee will be created to implement the agreement and will hold annual meetings alternately in the two countries.

During Ramaphosa's visit on March 9, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva stressed the principle that Brazil and South Africa should develop their own defense capabilities.

Lula said that they think of defense as deterrence, and if they do not prepare themselves in this regard, they run the risk of being invaded.

Both presidents expressed concern over the escalating conflict in the Middle East, underscoring international dialogue as the only path toward a lasting solution.