Former Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras has publicly endorsed Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva ahead of Sunday’s presidential runoff, renewing a political relationship dating back more than a decade and calling for international cooperation among progressive forces.
In a video message released Thursday, October 22, Tsipras, leader of the Greek Left Alliance (ELAS), described Brazil’s October 25 election as a contest between democracy and authoritarianism, expressing his support for Lula against Senator Flávio Bolsonaro, son of former President Jair Bolsonaro.
The message, published in Greek and Portuguese, emphasized the importance of social justice and combating inequality.
“At a time when the far right is rising globally and European citizens are protesting against injustice, poverty and inequality, Lula’s struggle in Brazil inspires us,” Tsipras said.
He also praised Lula’s record in government, arguing that left-wing policies could protect national interests while addressing citizens’ everyday problems.
“With Lula. With the Left. With progressive forces around the world. BORA LULA!” he concluded.
Lula Thanks Tsipras for Support
The Brazilian president responded publicly, thanking Tsipras for his endorsement and their personal relationship.
“Thank you for your support and friendship, comrade Alexis Tsipras!” Lula wrote, emphasizing the importance of cooperation among democratic political movements.
“The rise of the far right requires determination and unity among democratic forces worldwide,” he added, calling for action against hatred and authoritarianism and for societies with fewer inequalities and greater opportunities.
The exchange comes as Lula seeks another presidential term in a closely watched contest against Bolsonaro, whose candidacy represents a continuation of his father’s political movement. Tsipras had already expressed support for Lula on October 15, describing his political record as an example of how governments could address poverty and social inequality.
Political Relationship Dates Back to 2012
The relationship between Tsipras and Lula extends well beyond the current election campaign. The two first met in São Paulo in December 2012, when Tsipras, then Greece’s opposition leader, visited Brazil during the country’s financial crisis.
In his book Ithaca, Tsipras recalls explaining Greece’s economic difficulties to Lula, who responded that he wished him luck but would not want to be in his position. Tsipras subsequently supported Lula’s political comeback. On October 31, 2022, he congratulated him on defeating Jair Bolsonaro, describing the result as a victory for democracy, social justice and progressive movements internationally.
Their relationship continued with a meeting in Brasília on December 31, 2022, ahead of Lula’s inauguration for his third presidential term. Tsipras attended the January 1, 2023, ceremony as an invited guest. During their meeting, the two discussed economic inequality, the war in Ukraine, international relations and the importance of cooperation between Greece and Brazil.
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