Separated by a vast ocean, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil's second-largest city, showcases examples of a dynamic exchange and enduring collaboration with China.

The Selaron Steps, an artistic landmark in the city, are adorned with over 250,000 tiles collected from over 60 countries, some of which are from China.
Under Rio's golden sunlight, Chinese delicate ceramic tiles stand out, depicting iconic landmarks like the Great Wall and traditional cultural motifs such as China' s national flower peony. They weave the eastern beauty into this Brazilian masterpiece.
In Rio's Botanical Garden, an ancient tea tree, nurtured by Chinese farmers, stands as a symbol of cultural exchange. Over 200 years ago, the first group of Chinese tea growers arrived in Brazil, sharing their expertise and sparking the birth of a thriving tea industry in this South American nation.
"We like it and we are so proud if we can know more about Chinese culture. We would enjoy visiting China and experience its local scenery and culture," said a Rio resident.
Beside this tea tree stands an acai tree, Brazil's iconic plant - two trees side by side, a natural emblem of the China-Brazil friendship.
Adding to the city's significance, Rio de Janeiro is hosting this year's BRICS summit from Sunday to Monday.
"(The BRICS is) a great opportunity to strengthen the bonds between both nations," said another Rio resident.
For 15 consecutive years, China has remained Brazil's largest trading partner, with bilateral trade reaching an impressive 188.1 billion U.S. dollars in 2024. This robust economic bond complements the cultural exchanges, from tea cultivation to artistic endeavors, that continue to strengthen the multifaceted partnership between the two countries.