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 are the main challenges Brazil faces in its diplomatic relationship with Venezuela?
**Interview with Mauro Vieira, Brazilian Minister of Foreign Affairs**
**Editor**: Thank you for joining us today, Minister Vieira. You’ve recently made headlines regarding Brazil’s relationship with Venezuela. Can you elaborate on your comments about maintaining dialogue with Venezuela despite the current tensions?
**Mauro Vieira**: Thank you for having me. Yes, it’s crucial to understand that while our relations with Venezuela have indeed deteriorated, dialogue remains essential. It’s our responsibility to navigate these challenges without severing ties, as doing so could further exacerbate the situation.
**Editor**: You noted that the Venezuelan ambassador was recalled but not permanently removed. How does this impact diplomatic relations?
**Mauro Vieira**: Exactly. The ambassador’s recall for consultations should not be construed as a complete diplomatic break. Our two countries still maintain channels of communication. The Brazilian ambassador in Caracas continues her work, and I personally keep in touch with my Venezuelan counterpart. This ongoing dialogue is vital for addressing the regional crisis.
**Editor**: There have been criticisms regarding Brazil’s handling of Venezuela, particularly following the presidential elections last July. How does this factor into your approach?
**Mauro Vieira**: It’s true that Brazil did not recognize the results of the recent elections, which created friction. However, I believe that acknowledging our differences is essential for moving forward. It’s about finding common ground where we can negotiate and collaborate, rather than isolating ourselves from each other.
**Editor**: What steps do you believe are necessary for Brazil and Venezuela to rebuild their relationship?
**Mauro Vieira**: We must commit to open channels of communication and avoid actions that could escalate tensions. Dialogue, negotiation, and mutual respect are the pillars of any progress we hope to achieve. Both nations face significant challenges, and collaboration could lead to a more stable and peaceful region.
**Editor**: Thank you, Minister Vieira, for sharing your insights. It appears that while challenges remain, there is a clear commitment from Brazil to maintain a dialogue with Venezuela.
**Mauro Vieira**: Thank you for the opportunity to clarify our stance. It is indeed a time for dialogue and not isolation.
