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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**Interview with Mauro Vieira, Brazilian Minister of Foreign Affairs**
**Editor**: Thank you for joining us, Minister Vieira. Let’s get straight to the point. You stated in Congress that Brazil will not sever ties with Venezuela despite the current tensions. Can you elaborate on why you believe dialogue is essential at this time?
**Mauro Vieira**: Thank you for having me. Dialogue is essential because, even in times of disagreement, communication remains the most viable path toward understanding and eventual resolution. Our approach is rooted in the belief that isolating Venezuela would not contribute to stability or peace in the region. It’s vital to keep the lines of communication open.
**Editor**: Some critics argue that continued diplomatic relations may be premature, especially after Brazil did not recognize President Maduro’s election victory. How do you respond to those concerns?
**Mauro Vieira**: I understand the concerns, but it’s important to differentiate between recognition of government legitimacy and the necessity for ongoing dialogue. Diplomatic relationships serve many purposes, including promoting regional stability. By maintaining our ambassador in Caracas and keeping contact with Venezuelan authorities, we can foster an environment where open discussions can lead to a long-term resolution of the issues at hand.
**Editor**: You mentioned that the Venezuelan ambassador has been recalled for consultations, yet relations remain intact. How do you plan to rebuild the trust that has been damaged?
**Mauro Vieira**: Trust is built through consistent and respectful engagement. Our ongoing diplomatic presence and dialogue are the first steps towards rebuilding that trust. We are committed to being there for negotiations and are open to understanding the Venezuelan perspective, even while we maintain our own positions.
**Editor**: what message would you like to convey to the Brazilian public regarding this evolving situation with Venezuela?
**Mauro Vieira**: I would like to assure the public that Brazil’s foreign policy is aimed at fostering peace and stability. While we may face disagreements with Venezuela, it’s crucial that we approach these challenges with a mindset of diplomacy and dialogue. A peaceful solution is in the best interest of both countries and the region as a whole.
**Editor**: Thank you, Minister Vieira, for sharing your insights on this important topic.