President Trump on Monday vowed to work closely with Brazil's president-elect, Jair Bolsonaro, on a range of issues once he takes office.

“Had a very good conversation with the newly elected President of Brazil, Jair Bolsonaro, who won his race by a substantial margin,” Trump tweeted his congratulations Monday morning. “We agreed that Brazil and the United States will work closely together on Trade, Military and everything else! Excellent call, wished him congrats!”


The Associated Press describes Bolsonar as a “far-right congressman” who wants “radical change.” Trump and Bolsonaro spoke Sunday night after his win.

“President Trump called President-elect Bolsonaro of Brazil this evening to congratulate him and the Brazilian people on today’s elections,” White House press secretary Sarah Sanders said Sunday night. “Both expressed a strong commitment to work side-by-side to improve the lives of the people of the United States and Brazil, and as regional leaders, of the Americas.”

The past four elections in Brazil were won by left-leaning candidates, and Bolsonaro has promised to fight crime and corruption following an investigation in a string of scandals in Brazil.

Critics of Bolsonaro point to his praise of Brazil’s former dictatorship, the BBC noted, and comments he has made towards race, women, and homosexuality.