With deep sorrow and profound sadness, the Brazilian Center for International Relations (CEBRI) announces the passing of Ambassador Marcos Azambuja, an Emeritus Advisor to the institution.

Ambassador Azambuja served as Brazil’s Ambassador to Argentina (1992–1997) and France (1997–2003), and headed the Brazilian Delegation for Disarmament and Human Rights Affairs in Geneva (1989–1990).

He was the Coordinator of the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (Rio Earth Summit, 1992). At the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, he served as Secretary-General (Deputy Foreign Minister), having previously served in London, Mexico City, and New York (United Nations). He was a member of the Commission on Weapons of Mass Destruction and the Tokyo Forum for Nuclear Non-Proliferation and Disarmament, as well as a member of the Brazilian Historical and Geographical Institute (IHGB), the Council of the National Institute of Historic and Artistic Heritage (IPHAN), and the Roberto Marinho Foundation.

Marcos Azambuja was one of the most accomplished diplomats of his generation. He played a leading role in multilateral issues such as disarmament and the environment, and left a unique mark on the posts he led, in Buenos Aires and Paris. He had a singular ability to explain diplomatic matters with clarity, precision, and even humor. His elegantly written and fluid texts always carried an innovative touch.

He had recently been working on a book compiling his interviews with CPDOC and a collection of diplomatic writings and reflections on various topics gathered throughout his career.

With his passing, the world is less intelligent, less joyful, and less wise. For CEBRI, his loss is irreparable, as the Ambassador was a dedicated contributor since the institution’s founding.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues.

CEBRI