Lula in Monaco: A Stark Contrast Between Sustainability and Military Spending

President Lula da Silva's address at the Blue Economy and Finance Forum in Monaco on June 8th, 2025, highlighted a stark contrast between global priorities. He pointed out that assistance from wealthy countries for sustainable development dropped by 7% in 2024, while military spending simultaneously rose by 9.4%. Lula emphasized the urgent need for international cooperation to address environmental challenges. "There is no isolated solution for challenges that require collective action," he stated, underscoring the gravity of the situation. He also detailed Brazil's commitment to ocean conservation through initiatives like the Bolsa Verde program, which supports over 12,000 families involved in marine preservation. This speech serves as a timely reminder of the need for global collaboration and responsible resource management for a sustainable future.