The negotiation of a cooperation agreement between Brazil and the United States to combat transnational crime gained new contours after a counter-proposal presented by President Donald Trump’s government, according to an investigation by journalist Patrícia Campos Mello, from Folha de S. Paulo.
Among the points brought to the table is the suggestion that Brazil begin to receive foreigners captured on American territory into its prison system.
The idea follows a similar model to that adopted by El Salvador, which houses foreign inmates in the maximum security penitentiary known as Cecot. The proposal is part of the cooperation package under discussion between the two countries and should be one of the central themes of the planned meeting between President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva (PT) and Trump, whose visit to Washington, initially planned for March, is now expected for April.
In addition to the penitentiary issue, according to the newspaper’s findings, American authorities also requested that the Brazilian government present a plan to confront criminal organizations with international operations.
Among the groups mentioned are the Primeiro Comando da Capital (PCC), the Red Command (CV), Hezbollah and criminal organizations of Chinese origin that operate in Brazil.
Requirements include data sharing
The American proposal must also provide for the sharing of information about foreigners seeking refuge in Brazil. According to US authorities interviewed by SheetWashington wants access to biometric data and other records that can help monitor migratory flows and combat transnational crime.
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The initiative is part of a broader effort to block routes used by criminal networks and migrants crossing Brazilian ports and borders heading to other countries.
On the other hand, the Brazilian proposal includes strengthening cooperation between customs authorities to combat international arms trafficking — which supplies factions such as PCC and Comando Vermelho — in addition to expanding the exchange of information on transactions with cryptoactives used by criminal organizations.
Government resists part of the demands
The suggestions presented by Washington have not yet been accepted by the Brazilian government. According to interlocutors involved in the negotiations and heard by the newspaper, the two countries continue to discuss adjustments to reach a format considered acceptable by both parties before the meeting between Lula and Trump.
One of the main points of concern for the Brazilian government is the possibility of the United States classifying the PCC and Comando Vermelho as terrorist organizations. According to a report from UOL mentioned in the negotiations, Washington would have already decided to adopt this designation.
In the Lula government’s understanding, this classification could open legal space for direct US actions in Brazilian territory, something that Planalto seeks to avoid.
