President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva defended the enrichment of uranium for peaceful purposes during a visit to a Brazilian Navy nuclear facility [1, 2].
The remarks signal Brazil's commitment to strategic autonomy in nuclear technology and its willingness to challenge international norms regarding uranium enrichment.
Speaking in Iperó, located in the interior of São Paulo, the president visited the naval nuclear program facility [1, 2]. During the visit, Lula pledged the necessary resources to complete the construction of Brazil's first nuclear-powered submarine [1, 2].
Lula said that uranium enrichment can be done "for peaceful purposes" [1]. While some reports focused on the general defense of the Brazilian program, other reports indicated the president specifically defended the right of Iran to enrich uranium for peaceful ends [2].
Sources differ on the exact date of the remarks. One report dates the statements to April 19, 2024 [1], while another dates them to April 8, 2024 [2].
The push for a nuclear-powered submarine is a long-term strategic goal for the Brazilian Navy. By developing the capability to enrich its own uranium, Brazil seeks to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers for nuclear fuel.
Lula said, "I defend that Iran can enrich uranium for peaceful purposes" [2]. This statement aligns with a broader diplomatic stance of supporting the sovereign rights of nations to develop nuclear technology, provided they adhere to peaceful applications.
“"Uranium enrichment can be done ‘for peaceful purposes’"”
Brazil's pursuit of nuclear-powered submarine technology and its defense of uranium enrichment reflect a desire for greater geopolitical influence and military independence. By advocating for other nations, such as Iran, to possess similar capabilities, Brazil positions itself as a leader of the Global South that opposes what it views as discriminatory restrictions on nuclear technology.
