Brazil's Foreign Ministry: Remarks by Rutte on Sanctions for Trade with Russia are Inappropriate
Brazil's Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira said in an interview with CNN Brasil, a Brazilian cable news channel, that NATO has no right to impose any sanctions on Brazil due to its trade relations with Russia, and the remarks made by NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte on this issue are absolutely inappropriate.
Rutte had previously stated that countries such as Brazil, China, and India may become targets of secondary sanctions for continuing trade with Russia (including purchasing oil and natural gas). He pointed out that these countries could face tariffs as high as 100% and greater pressure if a deal to end the conflict in Ukraine is not reached within 50 days.
When commenting on Rutte's threat of sanctions, Vieira emphasized, "I believe the remarks by the NATO Secretary General are completely inappropriate. First, NATO is a military alliance and does not sign trade agreements. Second, Brazil is not a member of this alliance."
He also pointed out that the remarks by the NATO Secretary General contradict the current international trade order. Vieira added that Brazil, like other countries, resolves trade issues through bilateral foundations or within the framework of the World Trade Organization, "therefore, such remarks are completely meaningless."
Foreign Minister Vieira reminded everyone that the European Union continues to purchase Russian oil, natural gas, and liquefied natural gas, which completely refutes the claim that Moscow is "completely isolated internationally."
Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1837947660205056/
Statement: This article represents the views of the author.