Beijing: China is willing to work with Brazil against unilateralism and bullying, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi told his Brazilian counterpart Mauro Vieira over the phone, according to a statement from the Chinese Foreign Ministry on Friday. The remarks came as Brazil said it is considering retaliatory trade measures against the US over President Donald Trump's imposition of 50% tariffs on a range of Brazilian goods.

According to Anadolu Agency, Wang Yi emphasized that "China is ready to strengthen coordination with Brazil, join hands with BRICS countries to resist unilateralism and bullying acts, safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of developing countries, and promote the reform and improvement of the global governance system." As the current chair of the BRICS bloc of emerging economies, Brazil holds a significant position that President Trump has previously described as 'anti-American.'

Wang Yi highlighted the strong ties between China and Brazil, stating that the "China-Brazil relationship is at its best in history." He expressed China's readiness to enhance strategic mutual trust, firmly support each other, and deepen practical cooperation in various fields between the two countries.

Mauro Vieira acknowledged the importance of collaboration among BRICS countries, emphasizing Brazil's expectation for enhancing communication and coordination with Beijing and other relevant parties. He stated the need for exploring means to support the multilateral trading system and promote the reform of the World Trade Organization.

Relations between the US and Brazil have been tense since Trump imposed the 50% tariff on Brazilian goods, which took effect on August 6. Unlike most countries targeted by Washington's punitive tariffs, the US has a trade surplus with Brazil.