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 not 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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What strategies does Minister Mauro Vieira propose to rebuild trust between Brazil and Venezuela amid ongoing diplomatic tensions?
**Interview with Mauro Vieira, Brazilian Minister of Foreign Affairs**
*Interviewer: Thank you for joining us today, Minister Vieira. Let’s dive right in. You recently spoke in Congress about the state of Brazil’s relations with Venezuela. Can you elaborate on your stance regarding the current diplomatic situation?*
**Mauro Vieira:** Thank you for having me. It is crucial to understand that while our relations with Venezuela have faced significant challenges, especially since the presidential elections, I firmly believe that this moment calls for dialogue rather than a complete severance of ties. Breaking off communication would hinder our ability to influence a peaceful resolution to the ongoing crisis in Venezuela.
*Interviewer: You mentioned that despite the current tensions, Brazil does not intend to sever relations. Could you clarify what that means for future diplomatic engagements?*
**Mauro Vieira:** Certainly. Even though Venezuela has recalled its ambassador for consultations, this does not signify a permanent break. Our ambassador in Caracas remains engaged, and I continue to have open lines of communication with my Venezuelan counterpart. We must remain committed to negotiation and engagement as the best paths toward resolving disputes and encouraging stability in the region.
*Interviewer: The situation seems complex, especially after Brazil’s refusal to recognize Maduro’s election and the recent veto of Venezuela’s entry into BRICS. How do these actions play into your approach moving forward?*
**Mauro Vieira:** These actions were taken based on our evaluations of the electoral process and adherence to democratic principles. However, we need to focus on the future. Our approach will be about finding common ground and fostering dialogue to address our differences. This could ultimately create pathways for a better future for both Brazil and Venezuela, and it is essential for the region’s stability.
*Interviewer: What do you see as the main challenges in re-establishing a more dynamic relationship between the two countries?*
**Mauro Vieira:** The primary challenge is rebuilding trust between our nations. The political climate in Venezuela is sensitive, and mutual respect for each country’s sovereignty is paramount. While we may not agree on everything, we must prioritize open channels of communication to address our concerns and explore collaborative opportunities.
*Interviewer: Thank you for your insights, Minister Vieira. It seems that maintaining an open dialogue will be vital going forward.*
**Mauro Vieira:** Exactly. By engaging in open and honest dialogue, we can better navigate the complexities of our relationship and strive toward a peaceful coexistence in the region. Thank you for having me.