Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has decorated his office with care. You can see a large crucifix, a photo of his wife, a sculpture of a jaguar and a large map of protected natural areas around the world. In a turbulent and war-torn international context, the 79-year-old Brazilian president has remained true to his priorities: defending the environment and fighting poverty. These themes will take center stage during his state visit to France, beginning Thursday, June 5. Ahead of his departure, he granted Le Monde an exclusive interview from the presidential Planalto Palace in Brasília.

You have 92.29% of this article left to read. The rest is for subscribers only.