Event brought together defense sector authorities, guests and members in Brasilia
On August 28, the Brazilian Association of Defense and Security Materials Industries (ABIMDE) celebrated its 39th anniversary with a ceremony at the International Convention Center of Brazil (CICB) in Brasilia.
The event brought together authorities, member companies and guests. The Chief Minister
of the Office of Institutional Security of the Presidency of the Republic of Brazil, General Marcos Antonio Amaro dos Santos; the Secretary of Defense Products, Air Brigadier Heraldo Luiz Rodrigues, representing the Ministry of Defense; as well as attachés and embassies.
The Minister congratulated the members of ABIMDE and all the others who fight and make a great effort in the defense industries, which bring employment and results in so many fields to the country. “Congratulations, continue on this path and I’m sure you’ll achieve the results you’re all aiming for, which is greater prosperity in this area, which is becoming increasingly important today, which is to ensure the protection, defense and sovereignty of our homeland,” he said.
The ceremony featured a diverse program, with a ceremonial ceremony led by ABIMDE’s Executive Director, Colonel Armando Lemos. The first part was the launch of the book “Defense and Security Industrial Base: A Path to Development and Sovereignty”, which documents the progress and importance of the Defense and Security Industrial Base in Brazil. The multimedia project goes beyond the printed book. It will include a portal and a documentary, which will form a comprehensive collection accessible to different audiences.
Coordinated by ABIMDE, the project was advised by General Ivan Ferreira Neiva Filho, carried out by Valeria Rossi, from Rossi Comunicação, and journalist Maria D’arc. Researchers, specialized journalists and a diverse collection of photographers also took part. The book can be accessed online via the web portal: www.historiasbids.com.br.
The celebration also saw the signing of a Technical Cooperation Agreement between ABIMDE and the Brazilian Industrial Development Agency (ABDI), with the aim of establishing mutual cooperation in Brazil’s neo-industrialization process, through a programme to strengthen the industrial, productive and technological capacity of the companies that make up BIDS.
The agreement was formalized by the Chairman of ABIMDE’s Board of Directors, Dr. Roberto Gallo, and the President of ABDI, Ricardo Garcia Cappelli. Accompanying and ratifying the signing were the CEO, General Aderico Mattioli, and the Director of ABDI, Perpétua Almeida, further strengthening the strategic partnership between the two institutions.
In his remarks, President Ricardo Capelli said that the defense and security industry is strategic and is related to the generation of jobs and wealth in Brazil. “One of the missions of New Industry Brazil, launched by the federal government, is Mission 6: “Technologies of interest to national sovereignty and defense”.
We signed this technical cooperation agreement to work in partnership with ABIMDE to further develop Brazil’s defense industry, congratulations on your 39 years,” he celebrated.
Perpétua Almeida then declared her satisfaction at taking part in ABIMDE’s 39th anniversary and its long history of defending the defense industry. “A national defense industry exists because it is an industry of sovereignty, which needs to be equal to the Armed Forces of each country in order to defend its borders.
And that’s exactly what we want for the national defense industry,” he said. In his speech, the President of ABIMDE spoke about the new scenario, a state of conflict and war to which the world is returning, and made a counterpoint with Brazil’s capabilities to react to this new status quo.
“This context is complex, but the important thing is to realize that it is necessary to resume investment in defense. We have the banner of two percent of GDP for the sector, which is more than fair and necessary, it’s fundamental. Brazil has always been among the top 10 in terms of quality, but in order to maintain this, we need strategic vision and conservation of effort. That’s why I would like to thank the professionals at ABDI, the Ministry of Defense and all the other partners who have worked to make this happen.”
The participation of the Brasília Marine Band was the highlight of the event, demonstrating the proximity of the defense industry to the Brazilian Armed Forces. It was also a reminder and a way of expressing the appreciation that the defense industry, represented by ABIMDE, has for the military personnel who dedicate their lives to honoring and defending their homeland.
Retrospective
Founded in 1985, ABIMDE has been a key player in representing and supporting the national defense and security industry, consolidating its position as the sector’s main voice at home and abroad.
Over almost four decades, ABIMDE has played a key role in promoting innovation and expanding the visibility of the Brazilian industry in international forums. Last year, in particular, was full of achievements.
ABIMDE was present at several national and international trade fairs, strengthening partnerships and increasing the prestige of Brazilian industry. At each event, ABIMDE highlighted Brazil’s innovative capacity and technical excellence, reaffirming the country as an emerging power in the defense and security sector.
The workshops and technical seminars promoted by the association were essential for the exchange of knowledge and innovation, preparing the sector for the challenges of the future.
Each guest speaker has taken into account renowned professionals who have a wealth of experience and the ability to translate this into practical and strategic lessons.
Among the main milestones of the last year, it is impossible not to mention the progress of ABIMDE Certificadora. With more than a thousand products certified, this work is a direct reflection of the Association’s commitment to excellence.
The certification of controlled products, which strictly comply with the highest international standards, is backed by experience accumulated over 39 years in the defense and security industry.
Defense and Security Industry.
With an innovative vision, another major highlight was the launch of the “ABIMDE Conecta Soberania e Segurança” platform, the first in the country to connect companies, academia, agencies and specialists in a collaborative network.
The initiative aims to support strategic planning, facilitate the decision-making process and publicize the importance of the Defense and Security Industrial Base (BIDS), generating knowledge and strategic intelligence.
Over the last year, ABIMDE has received several foreign delegations, demonstrating the international confidence in its work. These visits provided opportunities to strengthen ties and explore new collaborations, reinforcing ABIMDE’s role as a strategic link between Brazil and the international market.
As ABIMDE approaches its 40th anniversary, enthusiasm for the future is renewed. With many challenges and opportunities ahead, the Association is ready to continue its journey of developing the Brazilian defense and security industry, always striving for excellence and innovation. Congratulations, ABIMDE, on 39 years of achievements and leadership!