President Patrice Talon of Benin will commence an official visit to Brazil on Thursday, May 23rd, extending until May 26. This marks the first visit by an African head of state since President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva returned to power in 2022. President Lula is no stranger to Benin, having visited the country in 2013 in his official capacity. The visit will feature strategic partnership signings and a segment focused on “memorial tourism,” making it a significant occasion, according to a Beninese diplomat.
A Packed Schedule
President Talon’s itinerary is notably full. It includes a tête-à-tête with President Lula on Thursday, the first day of the visit, followed by the signing of several agreements. A luncheon in honor of President Talon with members of the Brazilian government and economic sector is also planned.
Accompanying President Talon are four key ministers: those of Finance, Foreign Affairs, Agriculture, and Culture.
Highlighting Memorial Tourism
Benin recently reopened its embassy in Brazil, and RFI reports that the new ambassador will present his credentials to President Lula on Wednesday, May 22, just before the visit begins.
The partnership agreements are expected to cover a range of areas, including education, infrastructure, agriculture, and construction.
President Talon will visit Salvador de Bahia and, more notably, Sao de Luis, a colonial city where the mother of King Ghézo, the ninth king of Abomey, once lived after being sold into slavery. She established a voodoo convent there. Memorial tourism is a cornerstone of President Talon’s governmental action program, underscoring the historical and cultural ties between Benin and Brazil.
This visit aims to reinforce and expand bilateral relations, focusing on mutual historical connections and future collaborations in various sectors.