Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva told US President Donald Trump during a phone conversation Friday that the reasons given by Washington for imposing new tariffs on Brazilian products were unfounded.
The call lasted around one hour and 20 minutes. According to Brazil’s presidency, Lula argued that the tariffs were damaging to both countries and urged the two governments to continue negotiations to resolve their trade differences.
Trump reportedly agreed on the importance of maintaining strong economic relations between Brazil and the United States and suggested that officials from both sides hold another meeting soon.
The US introduced a 25% tariff on certain Brazilian goods last month, citing alleged unfair trade practices. Washington also imposed an additional 12.5% tariff connected to claims that Brazil had not done enough to enforce measures against forced labor.
Earlier in August, Brazil requested additional consultations with US trade officials. The process could eventually result in Brazil taking reciprocal trade measures against the United States.
During their conversation, Lula reaffirmed Brazil’s willingness to cooperate with Washington in the fight against organized crime. However, he argued that criminal groups operating in Brazil should not automatically be classified as terrorist organizations. The US designated two such groups as terrorist organizations in May.
Trump expressed support for greater cooperation between the two countries and said he would involve senior US officials in following up on agreements reached in the area of security and combating organized crime.
The two presidents also discussed major international conflicts, including the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East.
Regarding the Russia Ukraine conflict, both leaders agreed that reaching a negotiated settlement was urgent. The war has now continued for more than four years. Trump also discussed his views on possible ways to resolve the conflict involving Iran.
Lula additionally proposed holding an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council to explore diplomatic solutions to ongoing international crises.