Vietnam is eyeing a trade deal with Mercosur—comprising Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay—Brazilian President Lula da Silva announced. Lula aims to enhance Mercosur’s ties with Asia and expand Brazil-Vietnam cooperation in agriculture, defense, and education. During talks, both nations signed key agreements, including defense collaboration. Lula also welcomed Vietnam’s support for Brazil’s bid for a UN Security Council seat and accepted an invitation to visit Hanoi next year.