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 Minister Mauro Vieira envision the future of Brazil-Venezuela relations following the controversy over the presidential election results?
**Interview with Mauro Vieira, Brazilian Minister of Foreign Affairs**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Minister Vieira. You recently addressed Congress regarding Brazil’s relations with Venezuela. Can you elaborate on your stance about the current state of these relations?
**Mauro Vieira:** Thank you for having me. Yes, I emphasized that despite the recent deterioration in our relations with Venezuela, it is crucial that we do not sever ties. The circumstances—especially following the Venezuelan ambassador’s recall—are challenging, but they also present an opportunity for dialogue.
**Interviewer:** Many are concerned that ongoing tensions could lead to a complete breakdown. What measures is Brazil taking to ensure there is still communication between the two countries?
**Mauro Vieira:** Communication remains open. Our ambassador in Caracas continues to hold strong relations with Venezuelan authorities, and I personally maintain contact with my counterpart. It is important that we focus on negotiation and dialogue rather than isolation, as this is key to seeking a peaceful resolution to the challenges Venezuela faces.
**Interviewer:** Brazil’s decision not to recognize the results of Venezuela’s last presidential election seems to be a significant factor in the current tension. How do you envision moving beyond this disagreement?
**Mauro Vieira:** It’s true that the recognition of election results has strained our relations, but dialogue is essential in diplomacy. We must find common ground and work towards understanding, even when we do not see eye to eye. My hope is that through respectful conversations, we can address these differences.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned non-isolation as a strategic approach. Can you elaborate on what that entails for Brazil’s foreign policy towards Venezuela?
**Mauro Vieira:** Non-isolation means actively engaging with Venezuela, even amidst dissent. By keeping diplomatic channels open, we hope to foster an environment conducive to dialogue and cooperation on various issues. This engagement is vital not only for Brazil and Venezuela but also for the broader stability of the region.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for your insights, Minister Vieira. Your commitment to dialogue amidst complications is certainly noteworthy.
**Mauro Vieira:** Thank you. It’s essential for us to navigate these challenges thoughtfully and to prioritize peace and collaboration.