“Brazil Can Help Iran in Water Management Strategies and Technology. “ Asserts Brazilian Ambassador to Iran

Mr. Eduardo Gradilone is one of the most distinguished and seasoned Brazilian diplomats. Over the years, he has served in various diplomatic positions in a number of countries, including the United States, Colombia, Suriname, the United Kingdom, Japan, the Vatican, New Zealand, Türkiye, and Slovakia. In 2023, he was appointed as Brazil’s Ambassador to Iran. Now that we are approaching the end of his diplomatic mission in Iran and it marks the end of his professional career too, an opportunity arose to conduct an interview with him about the significance of the bilateral ties between Iran and Brazil as well as the prospect of expansion of joint cooperation. You can read the full interview in the following:

AVA Diplomatic’s Exclusive Interview with

Mr. Eduardo Ricardo Gradilone Neto, Ambassador of Federative Republic of Brazil to Iran

You have served in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Brazil for many years and have an accumulated experience. If you were to review your most significant achievements during this period, which ones stand out the most to you?

In a diplomatic career you are always collaborating in different ways, participating in meetings, missions, visits of authorities etc. Sometimes it is your position on a certain topic that prevails, or you manage to restore harmony in a situation of conflict. It is not easy to point out the most relevant and decisive participations of a diplomat. But if I had to name specific projects in which I have worked more directly, I would mention: the creation of a “Foreign Policy Reference Guide”, with documents, maps and relevant data on the main topics covered by our diplomacy; “ Consular Diplomacy”, a report of everything done during my term as Vice-Minister for Consular issues in our Foreign Ministry; “Brazil in the Schools”, a set of books, brochures, notebooks, videos, images etc to include Brazil in the schools’ study grid for children and teenagers of other countries; and “InfoLondres” (Information System of the Brazilian Embassy in London), a network connecting all sectors and computers at our embassy in the United Kingdom, equipped with a system for producing work programs and reports of diplomatic activities. It evolved through the years at the different posts in which I served and has now become “WhaGoOn” (What’s Going On), a user-friendly program through which employees record their main activities and the most notable events that are occurring within their areas of competence. I have always sought to implement in my diplomatic environment efficient private sector work methods and IT resources.

What were the biggest challenges you faced during your career? How did you overcome those challenges?

We diplomats are always going through tricky situations. In my case, I could mention terrorist bomb attacks near our embassy building or near our residence in Bogotá, Colombia; a military coup in Suriname; our demarcation and migratory regularization campaigns in hostile jungle regions at the borders of Brazil; several earthquakes in Tokyo and Wellington, where I once had to stand for hours under a table to protect myself from the collapsing ceiling; the crowds blocking for weeks our Embassy to the Holy See in Rome, paying their respects to the dying Pope John Paul II, and later the complex task of organizing the presence of four Brazilian presidents – one in office and three former presidents –  at his funeral; and many other challenges that would be tiresome to list, ending with what we are facing now here in Iran due to the conflicts with Israel, causing apprehension about what might happen at any moment.

From your viewpoints, what factors have strengthened or weakened Iran-Brazil relations in recent decades?

Iran-Brazil relations have been shaped by various geopolitical, economic, and cultural factors over the last 121 years. As for strengthening factors, I could mention the strong economic and trade cooperation between the two countries, enhanced after crippling commercial sanctions were imposed on Iran. Brazil has been an important supplier of agricultural commodities, while Iran has provided Brazil with oil, petrochemical products, carpets, dried fruits and other products.

I also note that in many aspects both nations share similar political views, which has contributed to our good bilateral relations and led to mutual support in international fora, such as the United Nations, the G15 and now the BRICS.

When it comes to the weakening factors, the most important are geopolitical tensions related to international pressures on Iran, especially from the Western countries due to its nuclear program. These extensive economic restrictions have increased Iran’s isolation in the international community, and it has been challenging for Brazil to engage fully in trade and investment with Iran without facing criticism from other nations. I will come back to this subject in the following.

What experience in cooperating with Iranian officials has been the most notable for you?

We have a very competent Director-General of the Americas at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Iran, Ambassador Eisa Kameli, a competent and cordial diplomat who is always ready to assist not only us at the Brazilian embassy, but all the Latin-American embassies in Tehran, to fulfil our obligation to represent our countries, negotiate, inform our capitals and defend our nationals. We feel that not only him, but all members of the Iranian government, in general treat us especially well, and for this we are very thankful.

In the economic field, what are the opportunities for bilateral cooperation between Iran and Brazil?

There are many, given their complementary economies and strategic interests. For example, in pharmaceuticals and biotech sectors Brazil has a growing industry, while Iran is looking to develop its already particularly good – as I personally experienced – healthcare sector. Mining and minerals are two other sectors in which Brazil is rich and has advanced mining technology. Iran, which has a wide variety of mineral resources, could benefit from Brazilian expertise and potentially collaborate with us in mining projects. We can also benefit from cooperation on technology and innovation, including information, telecommunications, and industrial processes. In continuation, I mention other possibilities.

What are the latest statistics regarding trade exchanges between Iran and Brazil in terms of volume and dollar value?

Talking about bilateral trade statistics of the two countries is an interesting topic, but also complex. Due to the economic sanctions, two thirds of our bilateral trade usually materializes through third countries such as UAE, Switzerland, Türkiye, Oman, and several EU countries; therefore, the actual trade exchanges between our two countries can only be estimated.

In 2023, the annual statistic for direct export from Brazil to Iran was recorded at 2.2 billion dollars, whereas both direct and indirect trade is estimated to be over six billion dollars. The main export items from Brazil to Iran are usually maize, soybean in grain, soyabean waste, soyabean oil, sugar cane, frozen meat, live cattle, and coffee beans, among others.

In the same period, Iran exported a total of 3.7 million dollars. The main export items from Iran to Brazil are dried fruits, including dried grapes and pistachios, glassware, carpet, stones, urea, polystyrene, and paraffin wax, among others.

What are the main challenges you have noticed in expanding economic relations between Iran and Brazil? Given the international sanctions on Iran, how has Brazil been able to maintain its economic ties with Iran?

I have already mentioned the negative effects of sanctions. But there are other challenges. The lack of bilateral trade and customs agreements between the two nations also has hindered the facilitation of trade and investments. Lack of knowledge and market awareness in the two countries, especially among the business communities, are another hindrance. Also, due to a large geographic distance and lack of direct shipping and airfreight routes between the two countries, the cost of transportation and delivery times have increased, and the competitiveness of Brazilian products has been affected.

Regulatory barriers and health requirements have also restricted trade, particularly in sectors like agriculture and pharmaceuticals. We are addressing these challenges with diplomatic efforts, based on our good relationship and interest in mutual benefits.

When was the last Joint Economic Cooperation Commission meeting held between the two countries, and how do you assess its role in the development of bilateral relations?

The Fifth Joint Economic Cooperation Commission meeting was held between Iran and Brazil in 2016. The Sixth JECC meeting is expected to be held next year. These meetings play a significant role in the development of bilateral relations. They are regarded as a formal platform for both countries to facilitate dialogue and serve to discuss economic cooperation, address grievances, identify opportunities, strengthen trade ties, coordinate policies and explore new areas for collaboration. All in all, the Joint Economic Cooperation Commission is a vital mechanism for Iran and Brazil to enhance their bilateral relations and navigate the complexities of international economic landscapes. We are looking forward to having the next meeting as soon as possible.

Iran and Brazil are both key players in energy markets. How can greater cooperation be achieved in this field?

Both countries have rich natural resources. Brazil has invaluable experiences in solar, aeolic, biofuels and renewable energy that can complement Iran’s oil, gas, biofuel and renewable energy and petrochemical capabilities. Cooperation in energy technology, especially in sustainable practices, could be particularly beneficial.

Several strategic initiatives are to be taken and implemented by both countries at the same time. Establishing formal agreements that outline cooperation in oil, gas, and renewable energy sectors can foster a more structured approach to partnership.

Considering the membership of Iran and Brazil in the BRICS group, how can multilateral cooperation in this group be strengthened?

In many ways. As I have already mentioned, we have common positions regarding several global issues. Working in coordination will help us to get support from others and implement these positions. Our former President Dilma Rousseff presides today the BRICS Bank, which is working to create alternative means of international payments aiming to reduce the dependence on the US dollar or the Euro. We will need strengthened cooperation for that to happen.

Are there new potentials for joint cooperation in agriculture and natural resources?

Yes. In both agricultural and food security sectors, Brazil is one of the largest agricultural producers in the world, while Iran has a significant demand for food products. Cooperation in agricultural technology, food processing, and trade in agricultural goods such as corn, meat, chicken, soybean, soymeal, sugar and coffee, among others, could enhance food security in Iran and provide a bigger market for Brazilian exports. Brazil can also cooperate in water management strategies and technology.

In geographical perspective and due to the global warming trend, Iran is currently in a dried region and due to the water scarcity and lack of water management Iran is suffering from the shortage of water especially in the agricultural and animal farming sector. In recent years, Iran has been badly affected by the global climate warming and, again due to the local and international market demand for different types of grains for human consumption and for animal feed, Iran needs to invest in farmland lease to grow commodity products to enhance its food security in the years to come. Brazil can cooperate in all these areas.

In term of trade and from the geostrategic point of view, Iran can turn into a grain hub in the region where a population of over 450 million people could be targeted in this market. Iran can reach out and meet the present market demand by constructing the required infrastructures within the country and by equipping the connecting ports and facilitating transportation channels. Brazilian partners could come into the picture and a sustainable supply network could be created in the region.

How do you evaluate the cultural relations between Iran and Brazil?

They were very good during the first two mandates of President Lula and is excellent again now in his third mandate. Unfortunately, we had to cancel many cultural plans because of the current difficult situation of permanent risks of war, frequent flights cancelations and other uncertainties. However, in spite of the difficulties, a few academics with expertise in Islamic politics visited Iran in the last months and delivered lectures in prestigious Iranian institutions. And also, art experts visited historical sites in Iran and are planning to create specific sections for Iranian artifacts in Brazilian museums and galleries.

One major project is the creation of a Portuguese language course in Tehran, which we are developing together with the Embassy of Portugal and the University Allameh Tabataba´í. On the 5^th of May – the Day of the Portuguese Language – we had a cultural event at the new official Brazilian Residence to celebrate the date.And on November the 3^rd we launched at ATU the Week of the Portuguese language, with the presentation of videos, books, paintings and other material from our three countries. While here to attend the inauguration of President Masoud Pezeshkian, our Vice-President Geraldo Alkmin signed a letter to the former Rector of that university donating to its library two hundred books written in Brazilian Portuguese.

How has the cultural exchange between Iran and Brazil helped to enhance mutual understanding between the people of the two countries?

In fact, cultural exchanges help to increase mutual knowledge, build goodwill between nations and peoples, incentive partnerships and create new business and jobs. I am glad that our consular sector reports a great increase in the number of tourist visas requested by Iranians in the last few months.

Are there any plans to strengthen educational and academic cooperation between Iran and Brazil?

I mentioned already the Portuguese language as an area for collaboration. Iranian scholars are asking a preface by President Lula in a major work about the relations between the Islamic and the Ibero-American worlds, written by authors of that region. Iran was recently included in the Brazilian program of scholarships, while several books written by Brazilian authors are being translated in Farsi.

How important has the role of sports diplomacy been in the relationship between Iran and Brazil?

Very important, due to our common love for these activities. There are several Brazilian couches and players of football in Iran, and other sports in Iran have also the participation of our nationals. Sports diplomacy would be a great tool for reinforcing our already excellent bilateral relationship, but – again – current turbulence in the region is preventing mutual beneficial initiatives in that regard.

Which aspect of Iranian culture has been the most attractive to you as Brazilian ambassador to Iran?

The Iranian and the Persian histories, the beautiful remains of old civilizations, with Persepolis and Pasargadae as outstanding examples, the excellent touristic guides, the museums, the mosques, the carpets, the musical excellence, the performing arts, the culinary and so many other things.

Have Iran and Brazil had any official dialogues in the field of human rights?

I think we have a fluid and beneficial dialogue about that in multilateral fora. Our countries refuse to be evaluated in terms of human rights practices by individual countries and not by United Nations specialized bodies, based on resolutions duly approved by the majority of its members.

The Brazilian Embassy in Iran grants free humanitarian visas to Afghan nationals. Is there a specific limit for issuing this humanitarian visa?

This is one of my major problems I have here in Iran. Brazilian humanitarian policy is very open, we have no limitation and restrictions as the majority of other countries, but the Afghans do not want to accept, although they surely understand, that since October 1^st, 2023, we are not accepting new applications. Every day and every time they agglomerate in front of our embassy to beg to me for these visas. We have huge outdoors explaining that they will have to present their application to the entitled humanitarian entities which are being selected by our government, which will assure that in Brazil they will have shelters, jobs and food, avoiding the problems they are facing today in Brazil for lack of that. Of the around thirteen thousand humanitarian visas provided by Brazil to Afghans since 2021, when the Taliban took over the government in Afghanistan, eight thousand were issued by our embassy.

What approach has Brazil taken towards global crises like the Russia-Ukraine War and the Israel-Hamas War?

We condemned the invasion but now we want peace. Brazil and China have presented proposals in this regard. We hope one day we could seriously embark in a peace process, with tolerance postures of the two sides in litigation.

What is the position of Brazil on the recent conflicts between Israel and Hamas, and what measures has it taken to reduce tensions in the region?

We condemned the Hamas attack, but we deplore everything Israel is doing in Palestine. Lula is now “persona non grata” for the Israeli government, because every day we are voicing our protest against what they are doing against innocent civilians. On the 21^st of October the sixth flight of Brazilians evacuees from Lebanon departed that country. Many other flights are scheduled to follow. We will not have peace until UN Resolutions about the creation of a Palestine State and measures to assure the security of the Palestine and the Israeli peoples are enforced.

Is Brazil ready to mediate within the frame of international efforts to establish a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas?

Due to the difficult relations between Brazil and Israel, our power for mediation is limited, but we are working hard at multilateral fora to contribute not only to a cease fire but also to a solid and permanent peace agreement.

Has Brazil taken any actions in the United Nations Security Council or other international bodies to prevent the escalation of the crisis between Lebanon and Israel? In a situation where violence is increasing in the region, how does Brazil support the principles of non-intervention and respect for the territorial integrity of countries?

We have delivered countless public notices about that, condemning acts against the international law, resolutions of the UN and principles of humanitarian convivence.

In your opinion, what changes need to be made in Brazil’s foreign policy so that this country can have more influence in recent international crises?

I think we are already doing a lot: we are now presiding over the rotating presidency of the G20, we will preside BRICS next year and also COP 30 which deals with environment issues. I think this shows that we are already contributing a lot to have a better world in terms of tolerance and harmony among peoples, peace among nations, sustainable environment, and just global governance.

As you approach retirement, what are your most important recommendations to the next ambassador of Brazil to Iran for maintaining and expanding Iran-Brazil relations?

I think my most important recommendation for my successor is to work hard for the resumption of our bilateral talks and high-level visits as soon as the situation in the region allows. Before arriving in Iran, I participated in two meetings in Brazil with Brazilian and Iranian delegations, one of them for political consultations. They were very important for our bilateral relations and for my work here. There are things that can only move ahead with personal contacts and human interaction to create confidence among the parties and facilitate negotiations. Unfortunately, now that due to an accident President Lula had to cancel his trip to Russia to attend the BRICS gathering in October, his meeting with President Pezeshkian will not take place as planned. Hope that high-ranking authorities of our two countries can meet again by the end of this year.