The governor of Sao Paulo, Tarcísio de Freitas (Republicans), attributed to President Lula the responsibility for the new 50% fare that the United States will apply to Brazilian products. In social networks on Thursday (10), Tarcísio stated that the government prioritized ideological interests and ignored the need to build good economic relations with Brazil’s main commercial partner.
According to him, the conduct of foreign policy has weakened the environment of dialogue with the Americans. “Lula put his ideology above the economy, and that’s the result,” he wrote. The governor added that “they had time to honor dictatorships, defend censorship and assault the largest direct investor in Brazil. Other countries sought negotiation.”
In addition, Tarcisio countered any attempts to blame former President Jair Bolsonaro for the commercial crisis. “It is no use hiding behind Bolsonaro. The responsibility is to those who govern. Narratives will not solve the problem,” he said.
Trump cites investigations in the STF
United States President Donald Trump justified the tariff measure claiming that the Brazilian government promoted attacks on freedom of expression and carried out actions against democratic elections. He also cited decisions from the Federal Supreme Court (STF) against Jair Bolsonaro, defendant for attempted coup d’état, and against supporters of the former president living in American territory.
According to Trump, the rates are valid on August 1st and will affect all Brazilian exports. He has classified Brazil as responsible for “insidious actions against democratic principles”, as well as criticizing alleged attacks on the freedom of expression of US citizens.
Lula promises response and defends national sovereignty
In response to the measure, Lula stated that the Brazilian government will adopt actions based on the law of economic reciprocity. According to the president, any unilateral tariff will be answered with equivalent measures.
The Brazilian executive also denied that the American decision is related to the trade balance between the two countries. “Any unilateral rate of tariffs will be answered in the light of Brazilian law,” said Lula. He then stressed that “sovereignty, respect and uncompromising defense of the interests of the Brazilian people are the values that guide our relationship with the world.”
Laura Basilio under supervision of Thiago San.
