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 factors influence Brazil’s decision to maintain dialogue with Venezuela despite recent tensions?
**Interview with Mauro Vieira, Brazilian Minister of Foreign Affairs**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Minister Vieira. You’ve recently spoken about the need for dialogue with Venezuela despite the deteriorating relations. Can you elaborate on why you believe maintaining communication is crucial at this time?
**Mauro Vieira:** Thank you for having me. It’s important to understand that breaking off relations entirely would not serve Brazil’s interests or contribute to regional stability. While we acknowledge the challenges and the current tensions, we believe that dialogue is essential. It can lead to negotiations that might eventually help resolve the political crisis in Venezuela.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned the Venezuelan ambassador was recalled but not permanently removed. How does that dynamic influence ongoing diplomatic efforts between the two nations?
**Mauro Vieira:** The recall of the ambassador does indicate some strain, but my counterpart in Venezuela is still in place, and our ambassador in Caracas maintains good relations with local authorities. These interactions are vital, as they provide channels for communication even when formal relations face challenges. It’s about keeping lines open rather than cutting ties.
**Interviewer:** What specific steps are you suggesting to facilitate this dialogue?
**Mauro Vieira:** We continue to engage through diplomatic channels, emphasizing negotiation rather than isolation. I personally maintain regular contact with my Venezuelan counterpart. We believe through sustained dialogue, we can address mutual concerns and perhaps influence a positive change in the situation.
**Interviewer:** Given the history of tensions, especially since Brazil did not recognize the recent Venezuelan elections and vetoed their entry into BRICS, do you truly think there’s a path forward?
**Mauro Vieira:** Yes, I believe so. It’s essential to promote mutual understanding, even amidst disagreement. While there may have been misunderstandings regarding political recognition, now more than ever, we need to focus on diplomatic solutions that prioritize peace and dialogue. The stability of the region depends on it.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Minister Vieira. Your insights on maintaining diplomatic relations during challenging times are critical for understanding Brazil’s foreign policy approach.
**Mauro Vieira:** Thank you for having me. I appreciate the opportunity to share our perspective.
