Márcia Melchior represents Brazil at Belt and Road media forum in China

Márcia Melchior, founder of the Orquestra Forte de Copacabana, is participating in the Belt and Road Media Cooperation Forum in Fuzhou, Fujian province, China. The event, held from November 4 to 6, 2026, is organized by People’s Daily and brings together representatives from 284 media outlets and organizations across 112 countries.

Melchior is presenting the Brazilian experience of using music as a tool for social inclusion and cultural exchange. The Orquestra Forte de Copacabana serves 50 young people from vulnerable areas in Rio de Janeiro through classical music education. Recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage of the State of Rio since 2024, the orchestra is supported by CNOOC Petroleum Brasil.

Her participation aims to highlight how cultural initiatives can strengthen diplomatic, commercial, and social ties between Brazil and China, using a presentation format similar to TED Talks to discuss the role of art in connecting distant nations.