Fiocruz establishes international health cooperation with ABC and CPLP

Fiocruz, the Brazilian Agency for Cooperation (ABC), and the Executive Secretariat of the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP in the Portuguese acronym) signed a memorandum of understanding last Monday (November 18) in Lisbon, Portugal, marking a new phase in the structural international cooperation on public health between Brazil and Portuguese-speaking countries. The signing of the agreement was attended by Fiocruz President Mario Santos Moreira and CPLP Executive Secretary Zacarias Albano da Costa. Juliano Féres Nascimento represented ABC at the event.

Memorandum marks a new phase in structural international cooperation on public health between Brazil and Portuguese-speaking countries (photo: CPLP)

"This memorandum represents a key step in strengthening international health cooperation, based on the deep historical and cultural ties that unite the Portuguese-speaking countries. By consolidating this partnership within the framework of the CPLP, Fiocruz aims not only to advance the development of technical and technological health capacities, but also to reinforce a global health strategy that addresses the collective needs of member states. The structural cooperation we propose seeks to contribute to the health sovereignty of the CPLP, promoting a healthier and more resilient future, in line with the values and sustainable development commitments that guide Brazilian foreign policy," said Mario Moreira.

"The partnership being established today brings us to issues of great relevance in the development processes of our Member States, reinforcing the sharing of knowledge and strengthening capacities among Portuguese-speaking countries within a broad network of cooperation and solidarity in the reflection and practice of public health," emphasized the Executive Secretary of the CPLP.

The memorandum of understanding reinforces Fiocruz’s commitment to collaborate in the implementation of the CPLP Strategic Health Cooperation Plan (PECS 2023-2027), approved by the IV Extraordinary Meeting of Health Ministers of CPLP. The agreement represents an important step in strengthening the health systems of CPLP member countries and enhancing the group's sovereignty over health inputs and products.

Among the main actions established in the document are technological development in health, supporting the formulation of a plan that prioritizes sovereignty in health inputs and products for CPLP member states; strengthening health systems through the implementation of projects focused on epidemiological surveillance, including technical training, laboratory organization, and the provision of molecular diagnostic kits and rapid tests, aiming at preparedness and response to future pandemics.

The Memorandum consolidates the importance of continuous collaboration between institutions, promoting the exchange of knowledge and technologies, in alignment with the policies of the Brazilian Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Fiocruz already implements various programs and actions in CPLP countries, coordinating structuring health networks such as the Network of National Institutes of Public Health (Rinsp), the Network of National Schools of Public Health (Rensp), and the Network of Technical Health Schools (Rets), as well as the Human Milk Bank Network (rBLH), among other initiatives. 

With this new agreement, the Foundation strengthens its mission to contribute innovative solutions to the health challenges of CPLP countries, fulfilling its role in structural international cooperation and promoting sustainable social and economic development, increasing access to health.

CPLP

The Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP) is the privileged multilateral forum for deepening mutual friendship and cooperation between Angola, Brazil, Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissau, Equatorial Guinea, Mozambique, Portugal, São Tomé and Príncipe, and East Timor. Founded on July 17, 1996, the CPLP has legal personality and enjoys financial autonomy. Its general objectives are political-diplomatic coordination, cooperation in all areas, and the promotion and dissemination of the Portuguese language.