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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What are the main challenges currently facing Brazil-Venezuela relations following the recent elections?
**Interview with Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira on Brazil-Venezuela Relations**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Minister Vieira. Recent events suggest a significant downturn in Brazil’s relations with Venezuela, especially after the recent elections and the BRICS veto. Can you elaborate on the current state of these relations?
**Mauro Vieira:** Thank you for having me. Yes, it’s true that our relations have experienced challenges, particularly following the presidential elections in July. Brazil did not recognize the electoral results, which has undoubtedly led to tensions. However, I want to emphasize that while circumstances may require a decrease in the dynamism of our relations, it does not necessitate a complete break.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned a decrease in dynamism but also the importance of dialogue. What steps is Brazil taking to maintain communication with Venezuela?
**Mauro Vieira:** Absolutely. Communication is essential. Although Venezuela recalled its ambassador for consultations, it’s important to note that this does not mean a severing of ties. Our ambassador in Caracas remains in her position and continues to engage positively with Venezuelan authorities. I also maintain contact with my counterpart there. The goal is to foster dialogue, negotiation, and non-isolation as we believe these are key to addressing the crisis in Venezuela.
**Interviewer:** Given the disagreements, what are the prospects for future collaboration or engagement between the two countries?
**Mauro Vieira:** While we have significant differences, particularly regarding political matters, our countries are geographically and historically linked. Therefore, it is crucial that we find a way to collaborate on issues that matter to both nations, such as trade, regional security, and humanitarian needs. Dialogue is the first step towards rebuilding trust and cooperation.
**Interviewer:** Some critics argue that Brazil’s approach lacks assertiveness in confronting the Venezuelan government’s actions. How do you respond to those concerns?
**Mauro Vieira:** It’s important to recognize that assertiveness doesn’t always equate to isolation or aggression. Our focus is on constructive engagement. Brazil has always favored diplomacy and is committed to supporting a peaceful resolution to Venezuela’s challenges. This approach may take time, but I believe it will yield better long-term results for both countries.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Minister Vieira, for sharing your insights. It seems that the future of Brazil-Venezuela relations relies heavily on diplomacy and a commitment to dialogue.
**Mauro Vieira:** Precisely. Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this vital issue.
