Brazil's Diplomatic Stance Affects BRI and BRICS

Tensions between Venezuela and Brazil have intensified after Brazil opted not to support Venezuela's bid to join the BRICS bloc, further straining diplomatic relations already fraught due to disputed Venezuelan election results. Venezuela accused Brazilian officials of aligning with US interests, summoning the Brazilian chargé d'affaires to express disapproval. Meanwhile, Brazil's decision to abstain from China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) reflects its desire to maintain independence while still benefiting from Chinese investments. This decision, supported by advisers like Celso Amorim, marks a shift in Brazil's diplomatic stance, contrasting China's plans to highlight Brazil's participation in the BRI during President Xi Jinping's upcoming visit. Brazil's choice mirrors India's earlier decision, with both countries in BRICS opting out of the BRI to avoid political entanglements.