Portugal and Brazil Sign Landmark Agreement to Combat Crime and Terrorism Together

Cooperation Agreement Signed

The Portuguese and Brazilian governments have signed a significant agreement aimed at enhancing cooperation between the Judicial Police (PJ), National Republican Guard (GNR), Public Security Police (PSP) of Portugal, and the Federal Police of Brazil. This agreement was formalized at the conclusion of the 14th Luso-Brazilian Summit held at the Palácio do Planalto in Brasília, with the signing by Portuguese Justice Minister Rita Alarcão Júdice and Brazilian Justice Minister Ricardo Lewandowski.

Key Aspects of the Agreement

The bilateral agreement, which is not applicable to extradition or mutual legal assistance in criminal matters, aims to foster direct collaboration between the respective police authorities in tackling crimes such as drug trafficking, arms and ammunition trafficking, and human trafficking.

According to the agreement, it will take effect 30 days after the last notification is received and will remain in force indefinitely unless terminated by either party. The competent authorities for implementing this agreement include PJ, GNR, and PSP from Portugal, alongside the Federal Police from Brazil.

Enhanced Communication and Investigation Techniques

The agreement allows for the use of liaison officers, telecommunications, and special investigative techniques, including the formation of joint investigation teams. It also enables the proactive sharing of data and information between the police forces when there are factual grounds to believe such information could aid in combating transnational organized crime and terrorism.

Crimes covered under this agreement include prostitution, sexual exploitation of minors, fraudulent use of identity documents, illicit trafficking of art, money laundering, corruption, cybercrime, counterfeiting, environmental crimes, and smuggling.

Training and Resource Sharing

The cooperation will involve the systematic exchange of information regarding various forms of transnational organized crime and terrorism, operational and forensic information, and assistance in executing police actions. It will also include the technical training of personnel from both parties and the sharing of legislation, literature, and scientific data related to combating terrorism financing.

In a press conference following the summit, Portuguese Prime Minister Luís Montenegro stated that this agreement would facilitate a more agile exchange of information and improve the recognition of the authenticity of documents exchanged between Portugal and Brazil. He emphasized the goal of enhancing capabilities to combat international organized crime, particularly in relation to human trafficking and illegal immigration.