Uruguay in focus on the bicentennial of independence

The main hall of the São Paulo City Council was transformed into a stage for celebration, dialogue and strategic projection during the commemoration of Uruguay Day in Brazil, on the 28th. The ceremony, which marked the 200th anniversary of Uruguayan independence, brought together political, diplomatic and business authorities in an afternoon that combined art, cooperation and business.

One of the symbolic moments was the presentation of the work "Lubolos," by artist Juan Muzzi, to the House's permanent collection—a gesture that cemented the friendship between the two peoples. Immediately afterward, the forum "Uruguay: Strategic Business Destination" hosted discussions led by journalist Natalia Ariede, bringing together experts from various fields.

Among them, the Uruguayan ambassador to Brazil, Rodolfo Nin Novoa, was a central voice in building diplomatic bridges, accompanied by Mariana Ferreira (Uruguay XXI), João de A. Sampaio (Institutional Relations) and Filipe Guimarães (Cubo Itaú).

The relevance of the date and bilateral ties

For Nin Novoa, attending the event carried a strong symbolic meaning. The ambassador emphasized that the bicentennial celebration was also an opportunity to strengthen the closeness between the countries.

"Brazil and Uruguay maintain excellent relations, and this date is a source of shared pride. It's essential to be present at moments like this," Nin Novoa emphasized.

Uruguay's economic potential

When discussing commercial prospects, the diplomat was emphatic in pointing out the opportunities the country offers.

"Uruguay has enormous potential in food production, and trade relations are fundamental to our joint development," said Nin Novoa, emphasizing the strategic nature of bilateral economic cooperation.

Education and citizenship as pillars of development

In the view of Mariana Ferreira, executive director of the Uruguay XXI agency, strengthening cities depends on two pillars: governments and municipalities. She argued that citizen participation and educational quality are crucial for sustainable growth.

"The most important thing is to ensure that citizens have access to an adequate level of education in urban centers. The organization of the educational system defines the limits and possibilities for development," Ferreira emphasized.

International reputation and strategic partnerships

Executive João de A. Sampaio brought the issue of international reputation to the debate, highlighting how Uruguay is perceived on the global stage and its position on the map of Brazilian partnerships.

"Each country builds its own reputation. Uruguay has a consolidated positive image, and Brazil, in turn, has significantly expanded its network of international relations. This context paves the way for concrete cooperation," Sampaio analyzed.

Innovation as a link between countries

Representing Cubo Itaú, Latin America's largest innovation hub, Filipe Guimarães emphasized that closer ties between Brazil and Uruguay must also include a technology and entrepreneurship agenda. He believes this connection can expand both countries' integration into global value chains.

Tourism and cultural integration on the agenda

The event was attended by Mariella Volpe (Uruguayan Ministry of Tourism), Bianca Pizzolito (WTM Latin America), and Juliana Assumpção and Marianna Alcorta (Abav SP). Their presentations reinforced the importance of tourism as a driver of cultural integration and the promotion of strategic business.

A celebration that projects the future

The meeting at São Paulo City Hall was not limited to formal ceremonies. The combination of diplomacy, education, innovation, and tourism created a fertile landscape for bilateral cooperation. As Nin Novoa summarized, the event was more than a celebration:

“We are celebrating 200 years of independence, but also building new bridges for the next 200.”

Report and photo: Mary de Aquino.