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 plan to balance its diplomatic efforts with the deteriorating relations with Venezuela?
**Interview with Mauro Vieira, Brazilian Minister of Foreign Affairs**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Minister Vieira. Recently, you mentioned the need for dialogue between Brazil and Venezuela despite deteriorating relations. Can you elaborate on why dialogue is important at this juncture?
**Mauro Vieira:** Absolutely. While it’s true that our relations with Venezuela have faced challenges, particularly after the last presidential elections and our decision to veto their entry into BRICS, it’s crucial to recognize that dialogue is essential. We believe that isolation will not help resolve the ongoing crisis in Venezuela. Instead, maintaining communication allows us to explore pathways to help stabilize the situation.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned the decision by Venezuela to recall its ambassador as a point of tension. How do you view this move, and what does it mean for potential negotiations?
**Mauro Vieira:** The recall of an ambassador can indeed signal strains in diplomatic relations. However, it’s important to note that the Venezuelan ambassador has not been permanently removed. Our own ambassador in Caracas continues to have strong relations with Venezuelan officials. This indicates that there are still channels for communication, and we are committed to using them to foster dialogue rather than escalating tensions.
**Interviewer:** Given the historical context and the recent events, how do you envision Brazil’s role in supporting a peaceful resolution to Venezuela’s crisis?
**Mauro Vieira:** Brazil has always been a proponent of peaceful resolution and regional stability. We aim to be a facilitator in dialogue, encouraging negotiation and cooperation. Our approach is grounded in the belief that constructive engagement can yield better outcomes than confrontation. We want to work alongside other nations in the region to address the issues facing Venezuela head-on.
**Interviewer:** Lastly, Minister, what message would you like to convey to both the Brazilian and Venezuelan people regarding the future of their countries’ relationship?
**Mauro Vieira:** My message is one of hope and commitment. Despite the challenges, we are dedicated to maintaining a respectful and open line of communication with Venezuela. It is through understanding and cooperation that we can overcome divisions and work towards progress for both our nations. The future relies on dialogue, and we are ready to engage in that process.
