China signed a memorandum of understanding with Brazil last week, to boost bilateral co-operation in science and technology, Chinese state-run news agency Xinhua reported.

The pact was signed between the Chinese Science and Technology Minister, Wan Gang, and his Brazilian counterpart, Aldo Rebello, during bilateral talks on science, technology and innovation held in Brasilia between senior officials. The news agency said the deal focused on bilateral exchanges for technology parks.

“China is shifting to an innovation-driven growth model, which closely matches Brazil’s plan to improve its industrialisation level,” Mr Wan was quoted as saying. “The two sides should pool the resources for science and technology co-operation and exchange experience”, he added.

He hoped such co-operation would become a “new engine” for growth in both nations.

Mr Rebello said new technologies were reshaping the economies, societies and lifestyles of the two countries in ways never seen before.

“Brazil gives priority to developing science and technology co-operation with China and is willing to further enhance the interaction with the Asian country in other fields,” he added.

Chinese Premier, Li Keqiang, visited Brazil last month, signing 35 trade and investment deals worth US$53 billion.