Strengthening Diplomatic Ties: THE SONAR INSTITUTE Visits the Brazilian Embassy in Dublin

On April 15th, 2021, THE SONAR INSTITUTE had the honor of visiting the Brazilian Embassy in Dublin, marking a significant step in fostering closer diplomatic and collaborative relationships. The day was filled with engaging discussions, a warm reception, and delightful conversations over coffee.

The meeting was graced by the presence of prominent figures from both institutions. His Excellency Marcelo Biato, Ambassador of the Federative Republic of Brazil in Dublin, warmly welcomed THE SONAR delegation. The Ambassador shared valuable insights into Brazil’s foreign policies and current projects. His Excellency’s career includes notable positions within Brazil’s diplomatic missions, showcasing a deep commitment to fostering international cooperation and understanding.

Accompanying the Ambassador was César Leite, the Diplomatic Counsellor and Head of the Consular Affairs Section at the Brazilian Embassy. Representing THE SONAR INSTITUTE were Ella Burkett, Director of Talent Acquisition, and Wigur Beijo Martinez, Administrative Board Member. Wigur Beijo Martinez brings a wealth of experience from his previous roles in the Ministério da Justiça (Brazil), Polícia Federal (Brazil), Palácio do Planalto President Team, and the Courts Translation and Interpreter Section in Ireland.

The visit aimed to discuss the objectives and activities of both the Brazilian Embassy and The SONAR Institute, identifying potential areas for collaboration. The conversations extended well beyond the scheduled time, reflecting the depth and enthusiasm of the discussions. His Excellency Marcelo Biato emphasized the importance of cultural and educational exchanges and expressed keen interest in joint initiatives that could benefit both institutions.

The meeting was also an opportunity to highlight the ongoing projects at the Brazilian Embassy and explore how The SONAR Institute could contribute to and benefit from these initiatives. The warm and stimulating atmosphere at the embassy, combined with the hospitality of the Brazilian diplomats and consular staff, left a lasting impression on the SONAR delegation.

Ella Burkett noted the exceptional hospitality and the promising discussions, which paved the way for future collaborations. Wigur Beijo Martinez emphasized the importance of such engagements in strengthening international ties and fostering mutual understanding, reiterating the value of continued dialogue and cooperation.

This visit is just the beginning of what promises to be a fruitful and enduring partnership between THE SONAR Institute and the Brazilian Embassy in Dublin. THE SONAR INSTITUTE looks forward to future engagements and collaborative efforts that will further strengthen the ties between the two institutions.


His Excellency Marcelo Biato: Career highlights

Born in Buenos Aires in 1958, Marcel Fortuna Biato studied at the Australian National University and the University of Brasília. He holds a master’s degree in political sociology from the London School of Economics. He began his diplomatic career in 1981.

In Brazil, he worked in the South American Division, the Department of the Americas, and the Subsecretariat of Political Affairs. His last position in Brazil, from 2003 to 2010, was in the Special Advisory Office of the Presidency of the Republic.

Abroad, he served at the Brazilian Embassy in London, the Consulate General in Berlin, the Permanent Mission of Brazil to the United Nations in New York, and the Embassy in Havana. He was the Brazilian Ambassador to La Paz, Bolivia, and the Permanent Representative of Brazil to the International Atomic Energy Agency and the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization in Vienna, Austria. He is currently the Brazilian Ambassador to Dublin, Ireland.

Throughout his career, Biato has accumulated extensive experience in international negotiations and the promotion of bilateral relations. His work has been crucial in mediating political and economic agreements and defending Brazilian interests in multilateral forums. His trajectory is marked by a continuous commitment to strengthening Brazil’s global partnerships, reflecting an active and engaged diplomacy.