Brazilian President Lula da Silva expressed his congratulations on the discovery of a new oil field near the mouth of the Amazon River and has authorized exploratory drilling, emphasizing its significance for the country.
On Tuesday, 18 Aug 2026 GMT+7, Brazil's President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva congratulated the discovery of oil near the Amazon River mouth, revealed by Petrobras, Brazil's state-owned energy company. He described this discovery as potentially a “passport to the country's future.”
The Brazilian leader stated that he has authorized exploratory drilling about 175 kilometers offshore in an area called the Equatorial Margin at a depth of 2,886 meters. The exact size of the oil field remains unknown, and assessments are ongoing to determine its commercial viability.
However, the discovery raises hopes for stimulating the economy and creating jobs in nearby areas such as the city of Oiapoque in Amapá state, which is already seeing increased migration.
President Lula affirmed that oil revenues are necessary to fund the country’s transition to clean energy. Brazil will continue to focus on developing biofuels and renewable energy sources.
He rejected international criticism regarding the drilling, stating that this issue concerns “national sovereignty” and that Brazil will not allow external interference.
The decision to proceed with exploration ahead of the 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) is seen as prioritizing national interests and the state-owned company’s benefits.
Environmental groups have strongly criticized the decision to drill the new oil field, citing the area's high biodiversity and concerns that any oil spills could be carried by currents to damage ecosystems, coral reefs, and coastal wetlands that serve as habitats for numerous wildlife species.
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Source:bbc