Modern.az website continues its series of interviews with foreign journalists. In these interviews, we aim to learn about the special perspectives of these journalists on inter-country relations, as well as their perceptions of Azerbaijan and Azerbaijanis in those countries, and to explore commonalities between the two countries.
Our interviewee this time is journalist Roberto Fonseca from Brazil. He is an employee of Brazil's influential media organization - "Correio Braziliense", and also the Brazil representative of the Global Journalists Union (GJU).
We present the interview with him:
–First of all, I would like to know, how would you characterize Azerbaijan-Brazil relations today?
- Relations are in a phase of institutional strengthening. Recently, mutual assistance agreements have been signed in the customs sector, and dialogues continue towards the protection of investments. Environmental cooperation has also come to the forefront: Azerbaijan is hosting COP29 (Baku), and Brazil is hosting COP30 (Belém).
-How does your country evaluate the South Caucasus region, including Azerbaijan?
-Brazil views the South Caucasus as a strategic bridge connecting Europe and Asia. The region's role in global energy security and its potential for new transport routes increase interest. Azerbaijan, in this geography, is considered a key economic partner.
– What perceptions exist about Azerbaijan in Brazil? How many Brazilians live or work in Azerbaijan?
Azerbaijan is not yet widely known to the Brazilian public. It is mainly associated with oil and gas reserves and sports events like Formula 1. The number of Brazilians in Azerbaijan is approximately 100, consisting mainly of diplomats, energy sector specialists, and athletes. Brazilians primarily operate in the oil and gas sector, engineering consulting, and historically in sports—football and futsal.
– Allow me to ask some questions about Brazil's internal processes. For example, how would you characterize Brazil's relations with neighboring countries?
-These relations are characterized by strong pragmatism and continuous efforts towards regional integration. In 2026, Brazil is leading the “South American Integration Routes” program. This initiative aims to connect the country with neighbors such as Argentina, Paraguay, Bolivia, and Peru through logistics and energy corridors. Although political disagreements sometimes arise between governments, the main priority remains economic cooperation and regional stability.
– In your opinion, what is Brazil's most pressing internal problem currently?
-The most urgent issue is maintaining fiscal balance and controlling inflation. Brazil faces the necessity of regulating public finances while simultaneously striving to continue extensive social programs. Furthermore, political polarization and border security (combating drug trafficking and transnational crime) are among the main topics on the national agenda.
– I'm curious, what is it like to be a journalist in Brazil today? Are you satisfied with the current state of media and press freedom?
-The landscape is quite challenging and complex. The rise of artificial intelligence, especially in the context of the general elections to be held in October 2026, causes serious concern. Fake videos, creating a risk of mass disinformation, are being produced on a large scale. The level of satisfaction varies, but in some regions, the physical safety of journalists and the financial sustainability of traditional media in the face of digital platforms are constant subjects of concern.
– What are the leading media organizations in Brazil, and does the average journalist's salary provide a sufficient standard of living?
Leading media organizations include "Grupo Globo", "Grupo Folha", and "Estadão". At the same time, television networks such as CNN, Band, and SBT are also important. The average monthly salary for a journalist is approximately 1000 US dollars, depending on the region and specialization. In smaller cities, this figure is lower. In large cities, while it may be sufficient for a middle-class standard of living, many journalists are forced to engage in additional activities.
– What are the main pillars of the Brazilian economy? What are the main export and import products?
-The main pillars are agribusiness, mining, and the service sector. Exported products include soybeans, iron ore, crude oil, beef, and "Embraer" aircraft products, while imported products include fertilizers, electronic components, refined fuels, and pharmaceuticals.
– How many Azerbaijanis live in Brazil, and in which fields do they work?
-The Azerbaijani community is small and mainly concentrated in the cities of São Paulo and Brasília. They are primarily active in diplomacy, foreign trade, and academia.
– Speaking of Azerbaijan, have you ever visited our country?
-Yes. I was in Baku and Shusha in February 2024.
– What surprised or impressed you the most?
Baku's ultra-modern architecture, for example, the Heydar Aliyev Center. That is, the harmony of ultra-modern architecture with the historical heritage of Icherisheher particularly impressed me. Azerbaijan is a country I wish to return to.
– Are there similarities between Azerbaijan and Brazil?
-The economies of both countries are closely linked to natural resources, and both face the challenge of economic diversification.
– I think the populations of both countries have a special approach to food and cuisine. I'm curious, are there similarities between Azerbaijani and Brazilian cuisines?
-Yes. Especially the tradition of fried and grilled meat is similar. Azerbaijani kebab bears resemblance to Brazilian barbecue, both visually and culturally. Also, the value placed on fresh vegetables and traditional bread is common. I also really liked the yogurt-based soups.
– Do you follow Azerbaijani football?
-Very little. I have some information about Qarabag due to its performance in the Champions League. Last year, Flamengo, Brazil's most popular club, signed a contract with Juninyo, one of the selected footballers from the Azerbaijani league. However, this transfer was not successful, and he has already left the team.
– How do you evaluate "Qarabag FK"'s performance in UEFA tournaments?
- "Qarabag FK" is largely perceived in Brazil as a symbol of resilience and perseverance.
– How was Azerbaijan's 44-day Patriotic War covered in the Brazilian media?
-It was mainly presented in an informative manner, referencing international news agencies. In the initial phase, attention was focused on the humanitarian aspect. I cannot provide a more detailed comment.
– How do you evaluate Azerbaijan's victory in that conflict?
- I do not wish to comment on this matter.
– In the international arena, Brazil is known for which products and sectors the most?
-In addition to agricultural products, Brazil is one of the global leaders in the aviation industry (Embraer), banking technologies, cosmetics, and biofuel production.
– In which areas do Brazil and Azerbaijan cooperate on international platforms?
Cooperation is primarily carried out within the framework of the UN (sustainable development agenda), in climate change forums, and in a dialogue format among developing countries on the topic of energy transition.
