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 might Brazil’s internal political dynamics impact its diplomatic efforts with Venezuela?
**Interview with Thiago de Aragão: Brazil’s Diplomatic Stance on Venezuela**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Thiago. Recently, the Brazilian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mauro Vieira, emphasized the importance of maintaining dialogue with Venezuela despite the deteriorating relations. Can you elaborate on the implications of this stance?
**Thiago de Aragão:** Thank you for having me. Minister Vieira’s comments underline a significant diplomatic approach. While tensions have certainly escalated, especially after Brazil’s stance on the recent Venezuelan elections and the BRICS membership issue, Vieira suggests that engagement, rather than isolation, is vital. This indicates a recognition that dialogue could lead to stability in a region that is prone to conflict.
**Interviewer:** How does this dialogue approach fit into the broader context of Venezuela’s threats to Guyana, particularly regarding oil-rich territories?
**Thiago de Aragão:** Venezuela’s threats toward Guyana have raised alarms in the region. Brazil’s role in mediating this situation is crucial, especially considering its geographical and economic ties. By calling for dialogue, Brazil can position itself as a stabilizing force. Furthermore, the ongoing tensions over oil resources complicate the narrative, and Brazil’s diplomatic engagement could help ease fears of an armed conflict.
**Interviewer:** What challenges might Brazil face in pursuing this diplomatic route with Venezuela?
**Thiago de Aragão:** There are several challenges. Firstly, the internal political dynamics in Brazil, especially with Lula’s government navigating a complex political landscape, can impact foreign policy decisions. Secondly, Venezuela’s unpredictable behavior under Maduro can also complicate negotiations. If Venezuela perceives Brazil’s outreach as weakness, it might embolden more aggressive posturing, particularly regarding Guyana.
**Interviewer:** Do you believe this approach of maintaining dialogue could lead to a tangible resolution for Venezuela’s internal issues, or is it more of a tactic for Brazil to secure its interests in the region?
**Thiago de Aragão:** It may serve both purposes. Maintaining diplomatic channels can help Brazil project itself as a leader in regional stability, fostering cooperation rather than conflict. Simultaneously, it allows Brazil to protect its strategic interests, particularly with regard to oil and trade. Ultimately, while dialogue may not resolve Venezuela’s internal crises overnight, it is a necessary foundation for any potential long-term solutions.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Thiago. It’s clear that Brazil’s position is deeply intertwined with both regional stability and its own national interests.
**Thiago de Aragão:** Absolutely, and as the situation continues to evolve, Brazil’s diplomatic finesse will be critical in shaping the future of the region. Thank you for having me.
