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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How does Brazil’s decision to veto Venezuela’s membership in BRICS align with its broader diplomatic strategy?
**Interview with Mauro Vieira, Brazilian Minister of Foreign Affairs**
**Editor:** Good afternoon, Minister Vieira. Thank you for joining us today. We want to discuss your recent statements about Brazil’s relationship with Venezuela. You’ve mentioned the importance of dialogue. Can you elaborate on why maintaining communication is essential right now?
**Mauro Vieira:** Good afternoon, and thank you for having me. Maintaining dialogue with Venezuela is crucial for several reasons. Despite the current challenges, both nations share geographic and cultural ties that are important for regional stability. Diplomacy should always be the first avenue we explore, especially during times of tension. It allows us to address our differences and work toward a peaceful resolution to the ongoing crisis in Venezuela.
**Editor:** You indicated that Brazil is not planning to sever ties with Venezuela, despite the ambassadorial recall by Caracas. What does this mean for future diplomatic efforts?
**Mauro Vieira:** Yes, that’s correct. Even though we are experiencing a downturn in our relations, it does not mean we must abandon our diplomatic channels. The Venezuelan ambassador is still in Brazil, and our ambassador in Caracas continues to operate effectively. I remain in contact with my Venezuelan counterpart. These communications are vital for fostering understanding and cooperation, especially considering the implications that a deteriorating relationship could have on both our countries.
**Editor:** You mentioned the presidential elections in Venezuela and Brazil’s decision not to recognize Maduro’s victory. How have these political developments affected Brazil’s stance?
**Mauro Vieira:** The situation following those elections was complicated and undeniably impacted our bilateral relations. However, while we express our views and concerns regarding electoral integrity, the goal is still to seek engagement rather than isolation. We want to encourage a dialogue that can eventually lead to sustainable solutions for the difficulties Venezuela faces.
**Editor:** With Brazil having vetoed Venezuela’s membership in BRICS, many are curious about the implications. How does this decision fit into your broader strategy for engagement?
**Mauro Vieira:** The veto was based on specific guidelines and concerns tied to our commitment to democratic principles. However, it doesn’t signify a termination of relations. We believe that engagement, even when there are disagreements, allows us to come to the table and express our concerns. Our strategy is to ensure that our actions promote dialogue and facilitate a collective effort towards greater regional stability.
**Editor:** Thank you, Minister Vieira. It sounds like Brazil is committed to pursuing a balanced approach moving forward.
**Mauro Vieira:** Absolutely. It’s vital that we keep communication open and work collaboratively, not just for our nations but for the region as a whole. Thank you for the discussion.
