Brazilian President Lula da Silva Refuses to Negotiate with Trump on US Tariff Dispute. He stated that he would speak with PM Modi and Xi Jinping and seek a solution through the WTO.
Trump Tariff: Economic tensions between Brazil and the United States continue to deepen. Relations between the two countries have soured after US President Donald Trump imposed a 50% tariff on Brazil. Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has reacted bly to this, refusing to negotiate with Trump. Lula has said that he will not discuss this issue with Trump, but will contact Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping.
Lula Rejects Trump's Offer
Trump stated that Lula could talk to him anytime, and that he wanted an open dialogue on the tariff issue. However, Lula rejected this offer, saying there was no need to talk to Trump. Lula said in clear terms, "I will not call Trump. I will call Xi Jinping, I will call PM Modi."
Why Did the US Impose a 50% Tariff?
Recently, the US imposed a 50 percent tariff on some major products coming from Brazil. The US justification for this decision is that Brazil is harming the American market through certain policies. However, Brazil is calling this move unfair and creating trade imbalances.
Brazil Will Fight Through the WTO
Lula said during a public event in Brasilia that Brazil would now raise this issue in the World Trade Organization (WTO). He said, "We will present our case on every platform. Whether it is the WTO or any other international forum, Brazil will protect its trade interests."
Efforts to Cooperate with BRICS Countries
Brazil's strategy is now to increase cooperation with BRICS countries instead of relying on the United States. Lula said that his government is exploring new business opportunities in conjunction with India, China, Russia and other partner countries. He reiterated that he would discuss this issue with PM Modi and President Xi Jinping.
A Jab at Trump, But an Invitation to COP30
Lula clarified his position on Trump, stating that he did not want to have a private conversation with him, but he also added that he would invite him to the COP30 conference in Brazil. He said, "I will give Trump an invitation for COP30. If he doesn't come, it's his choice, but there will be no shortage of effort on my part."
Negotiations Should Be With Equality and Respect: Lula
Lula made it clear that Brazil is ready to talk to the United States, but this conversation should be based on equality and mutual respect. He said, "We will not talk while bowing down. If America wants to talk respectfully, we are ready."
US President Donald Trump told the media at the White House on Friday, "Lula can talk to me anytime." He praised the Brazilian people but accused the government there of adopting wrong policies. Trump also targeted the BRICS countries and said that the policies of these countries are affecting America's economic interests.
America's Concern Regarding BRICS
The economic strategies of the BRICS countries often appear to go against the US. BRICS policies challenging dollar dominance have made America uncomfortable. Trump even said that an additional 10 percent tariff would be imposed on countries supporting BRICS.
