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 Minister Mauro Vieira’s main arguments for maintaining diplomatic dialogue with Venezuela amidst existing tensions?
**Interview with Mauro Vieira, Brazilian Minister of Foreign Affairs**
**Interviewer**: Thank you for joining us today, Minister Vieira. Given the recent statements about Brazil’s relationship with Venezuela, can you elaborate on why you believe it is essential to maintain dialogue with Caracas despite the current tensions?
**Mauro Vieira**: Thank you for having me. It’s true that the relationship has been under strain, particularly in light of our stance on the Venezuelan elections and Brazil’s veto of Venezuela’s entry into BRICS. However, it’s crucial to distinguish between diplomatic challenges and total disengagement. Maintaining dialogue is vital not only for the bilateral relationship but also for regional stability. Dialogue opens pathways to understanding and can be instrumental in addressing the ongoing crises in Venezuela.
**Interviewer**: You mentioned the decision by Venezuela to recall its ambassador for consultations. How does this impact Brazil’s diplomatic stance?
**Mauro Vieira**: While Venezuela’s decision was concerning, it’s important to note that this does not signify a permanent rupture of ties. Our ambassador in Caracas continues to function effectively and has maintained good relations with Venezuelan authorities. It’s a dynamic situation, but the essence is that we are committed to dialogue. We cannot afford to isolate ourselves or Venezuela, as that would hinder any chances of a peaceful resolution to the issues they face.
**Interviewer**: Some critics argue that the recognition of electoral results in Venezuela is essential for restoring relations. How do you respond to that?
**Mauro Vieira**: It’s true that the political landscape is complicated, and our non-recognition of the recent electoral results has contributed to the deterioration of relations. However, we are advocating for dialogue rather than confrontation. We believe that negotiations can provide a constructive space to address concerns, including the legitimacy of elections, rather than allowing that to be a roadblock for engagement.
**Interviewer**: In your view, what are the key benefits of fostering a relationship with Venezuela at this time?
**Mauro Vieira**: Engaging with Venezuela can have multiple benefits. Firstly, it helps to foster regional stability, which is crucial for both Brazil and its neighbors. Secondly, dialogue can facilitate cooperation on important issues, such as migration and trade, that affect both countries. Most importantly, fostering communication can contribute to a peaceful solution for the Venezuelan crisis, which has humanitarian implications that extend beyond its borders.
**Interviewer**: what are the next steps for Brazil regarding its foreign policy towards Venezuela?
**Mauro Vieira**: We are committed to ongoing dialogue and diplomatic engagement. We are strengthening our communications with Venezuelan officials and are exploring avenues for collaboration on pressing issues. Our approach will focus on negotiation and mutual respect, aiming for a future where our relations can be rebuilt and enhanced, serving both our nations positively.
**Interviewer**: Thank you, Minister Vieira, for sharing your insights on such a complex topic.
**Mauro Vieira**: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this important issue.