Brasilia, Nov 13 (EFE).- The Brazilian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mauro Vieira, stated this Wednesday in an appearance in Congress that, despite the clear deterioration of Brazil‘s relations with Venezuela, the current moment has to be one of dialogue and not to break relations with the neighboring country.
“Although circumstances impose an inevitable decrease in the dynamism of relations, that does not mean that Brazil has to break relations with Venezuela or something of that nature,” said the chancellor in reference to Caracas’ recent decision to recall its ambassador. in Brasilia for consultations.
Vieira added that the Venezuelan ambassador was not permanently removed from the country, that the Brazilian ambassador in Caracas remains in her position and has very good relations with the Venezuelan authorities, and that he himself continues to maintain contacts with his counterpart from the neighboring country.
“On the contrary, the current moment is one of dialogue, negotiation and non-isolation, which are key to a peaceful solution to the crisis in Venezuela,” he assured.
Relations began to deteriorate since the presidential elections last July because the Government of Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva did not recognize the victory granted by the Venezuelan electoral body to President Nicolás Maduro, and they worsened in October when Brazil vetoed Venezuela’s entry. to the BRICS as a full member after the bloc’s summit held in Russia.
Since then, different Venezuelan authorities have harshly criticized Lula.
Vieira said that Brazil is not obliged to recognize Maduro’s supposed victory in the presidential elections because, by tradition, the country does not recognize governments but states.
«The current moment is delicate and requires professionalism and caution from diplomacy. Brazil’s practice is to recognize States and not governments. It is a tradition that seeks to avoid the politicization of the recognition or non-recognition of a foreign Government,” he assured.
According to the chancellor, Brazil has insisted on dialogue with Venezuela and other countries about the Venezuelan crisis not only because it is an important neighbor but also because it was guarantor of the Barbados Agreement, in which the Government and opposition defined the bases for the elections of this year, and because, at Maduro’s invitation, he was an election observer.
He added, however, that the solution to the crisis has to be “constructed” by the Venezuelans themselves and not imposed from outside with more sanctions and isolation.
«We already saw that that does not work. We cannot repeat the mistakes of the time when Juan Guaidó was proclaimed interim president. There were two presidents, but one only had a title and did not have a country to govern,” he said.
“That has nothing to do with interference or recognition of something political but rather the needs of a relationship,” he said.
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How does Brazil plan to balance its foreign policy between supporting democracy and engaging in dialogue with countries like Venezuela?
**Interview with Mauro Vieira: Brazilian Minister of Foreign Affairs**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Minister Vieira. You recently addressed Congress regarding Brazil’s relationship with Venezuela. Can you elaborate on why you believe dialogue is essential at this point?
**Mauro Vieira:** Thank you for having me. Dialogue is crucial because it provides a pathway toward understanding and resolving our differences peacefully. Despite the challenges we face, including the recent diplomatic tensions, breaking off relations only exacerbates the situation. We believe that through continuous communication, we can foster a more constructive relationship.
**Editor:** You mentioned the Venezuelan ambassador’s recall. How do you view this development, and what reassurances can you provide regarding Brazil’s diplomatic stance?
**Mauro Vieira:** The recall of the ambassador is indeed a significant gesture, but it does not signify a complete rupture. Our ambassador in Caracas remains in her position, and I maintain regular communication with my Venezuelan counterpart. This ongoing engagement is vital. It reassures both nations that we are committed to working through our differences.
**Editor:** Given the political climate, especially after Brazil’s non-recognition of the recent Venezuelan presidential election results, do you anticipate any immediate improvements in relations?
**Mauro Vieira:** Relations may not improve overnight, but we must prioritize dialogue and negotiation. It is essential to create an environment conducive to peace, especially considering the ongoing crisis in Venezuela. We are hoping that through sustained engagement, we can take steps towards normalizing our political dynamics.
**Editor:** As Brazil navigates its foreign policy, what impact do you foresee this situation having on Brazil’s standing in regional politics?
**Mauro Vieira:** Our approach demonstrates our commitment to diplomacy. By choosing dialogue over isolation, Brazil can position itself as a leader advocating for peaceful resolutions in the region. This stance allows us to potentially mediate conflicts and foster cooperation among neighboring countries.
**Editor:** Thank you, Minister Vieira, for your insights on this important topic. We appreciate your time and dedication to fostering dialogue.
**Mauro Vieira:** Thank you for having me. It’s crucial that we continue to engage in conversations like this for the betterment of our region.
