- Brazil’s Lula accepts an invitation from Paraguay’s President Pena for a visit.
- The visit aims to resume discussions on the Itaipu hydroelectric power plant treaty.
- Negotiations were suspended after Paraguay sought clarification on intelligence actions.
Lula Accepts Invitation to Strengthen Ties with Paraguay
Brazil’s President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has given the green light for a visit to Paraguay after receiving an invitation from President Santiago Pena. The announcement came through an official statement released by the Brazilian government on Thursday, indicating a renewed commitment between the two nations. This visit comes at a crucial time as both countries look to enhance their bilateral relations, particularly concerning the Itaipu hydroelectric power plant treaty.
Negotiations on Itaipu Treaty Remain in Limbo
The two leaders reaffirmed their intention to revive the discussions surrounding Annex C of the Itaipu hydroelectric power plant treaty. This treaty is critical because it governs the operations of the plant, a joint project between Brazil and Paraguay. However, negotiations that were initially set to wrap up by the end of May were halted following Paraguay’s request for clarification regarding an alleged intelligence operation conducted by Brazil against it.
Concerns Over Intelligence Operations Addressed
During their meeting, which took place at the Brazilian embassy in Buenos Aires amid the Mercosur summit, the ongoing investigations into the purported actions by Brazilian intelligence agency Abin towards Paraguay were discussed. Pena expressed his worries about these incidents through a post on X, emphasizing the need for Brazil to clarify the situation. The two presidents reiterated their commitment to maintaining respect and open dialogue as they navigate these sensitive issues.
In summary, President Lula of Brazil is set to visit Paraguay following an invitation from President Pena. This visit will focus on reviving talks about the Itaipu hydroelectric power plant treaty, which have faced delays. The dialogue between the two nations stresses respect and a commitment to resolving ongoing issues surrounding Brazilian intelligence operations.
