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Since Luiz In??cio Lula da Silva's election in October 2002, Brazil has been aspiring to a leading role on the international political stage. One of its diplomatic priorities is to forge close ties with the African continent. The growing volume of trade between Africa and Brazil, like the increasing frequency of bilateral visits, is a sign of the rapprochement between Brasilia and the African continent. Brazil's African policy combines two lines of thought: reinforcing its position on the international stage and accessing new, buoyant markets. Yet, Brazil is coming up not only against the presence of traditional players such as France and the United States, but also against the ambitions of China and India. Brazil is thus consolidating its African policy by highlighting a common history and shared interests so as to more effectively foster cooperation in forthcoming years.