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 Brazil plan to engage with other regional partners to address concerns regarding stability in Venezuela?
**Interview with Mauro Vieira, Brazilian Minister of Foreign Affairs**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Minister Vieira. You’ve emphasized the importance of dialogue with Venezuela despite the current tension between the two nations. Can you elaborate on why maintaining these relationships is so crucial?
**Vieira:** Thank you for having me. It’s essential to understand that diplomatic relations serve as a channel for open communication, which can help resolve conflicts. We believe that even in challenging times, dialogue is necessary to foster understanding and find common ground.
**Editor:** You mentioned the recent recall of the Venezuelan ambassador as a factor in the deterioration of relations. How do you view this action, and what does it mean going forward?
**Vieira:** The recall of the ambassador is certainly a significant diplomatic gesture, but it does not equate to a complete severing of ties. Our ambassador in Caracas remains in her position, and we continue to have good relations with local authorities. We believe that keeping lines of communication open can pave the way for reconciliation and collaboration.
**Editor:** Some critics have argued that Brazil should take a firmer stance against the Venezuelan government, especially considering the political controversies surrounding President Maduro’s elections. How do you respond to those calls?
**Vieira:** While we recognize the concerns regarding election integrity in Venezuela, it is imperative to approach this situation with a mindset of engagement rather than isolation. It’s about finding a peaceful solution to the crisis, which often requires nuanced and patient diplomacy rather than aggressive confrontations.
**Editor:** What specific steps is Brazil taking to promote this dialogue with Venezuela?
**Vieira:** We are actively maintaining diplomatic contacts and exploring avenues for negotiation. Our approach is to encourage discussions that could lead to stability in Venezuela while ensuring that Brazil remains a responsible neighbor and advocate for peace in the region.
**Editor:** Thank you, Minister Vieira, for sharing your insights on this complex issue. It’s clear that Brazil is navigating a challenging diplomatic landscape with a focus on dialogue and constructive communication.
**Vieira:** Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this important topic. We remain committed to fostering peace and understanding in our region.
