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Finance Minister Fernando Haddad said on Wednesday (24) that the “initially conflicting” relationship with the United States this year is already being surpassed, after the nod of President Donald Trump, who showed opening for a meeting with President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva (PT) this week.
Finance Minister Fernando Haddad | Diogo Zacarias/MF. Photo: Reproduction
In a public hearing in the House of Representatives, Haddad stated that even in the face of the scenario with the tariffs imposed by the US, Brazilian products are still valued in the world.
“Even this year, with the adversities of a relationship initially conflicted, but that is already being overcome, with the United States, the Brazilian product is highly valued abroad,” he said.
Alckmin shows optimism
The vice president, Geraldo Alckmin, also commented on the meeting of Brazilian and US leaders and demonstrated optimism about their conversation.
“It was a good meeting between the two presidents and we have everything to be able to move forward,” Alckmin told reporters during an event at BNDES.
In August, Trump imposed a 50% rate on Brazilian products exported to the US, justifying the measure in part for what he called “witch hunt” against former President Jair Bolsonaro (PT) in the process for attempted coup. Subsequently, some products were exempt from this super tariff.
“Good chemistry among people helps strengthen relationships between countries as well. We are optimistic,” said Alckmin on Wednesday.
The vice president also reaffirmed that the path of Brazil’s relationship with the US is that of dialogue and negotiation and stressed that the negotiations may involve tariff and non-tariff issues.
“There is always room for a dialogue for tariff, non -tariff issues and a lot of investment opportunity,” added Alckmin.
Brazil x USA Relationship
President Lula met, for the first time after the imposition of tariffs in August, with US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (23), during the UN General Assembly (UN) in New York.
According to Trump, the two met briefly and exchanged only a few words, but came out with the promise that they would meet again next week. The Republican said he is open to negotiations to reduce 50% imposed rates on Brazilian products.
“He liked me and I liked him. And I just do business I like with,” the American said in a speech.
Donald Trump also stated that there was “chemistry” between him and the Brazilian president. Lula has not commented on the meeting.
