São Paulo, Brazil, October 7(HS): In a marked thaw of previously frosty relations, US President Donald Trump and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva held a cordial video call on Monday, focusing on reducing trade tensions and restoring bilateral ties between the two largest Western democracies. The leaders discussed Brazil’s request to roll back US tariffs on Brazilian goods from the current 50% to the original 10%, alongside removing sanctions on certain Brazilian officials, signaling a mutual interest in improving economic cooperation.The call lasted approximately thirty minutes and was described as “friendly” by both sides.

Lula emphasized the need to “restore” the positive relationship and acknowledged the existing US trade surplus with Brazil. Both presidents exchanged contact information to facilitate ongoing direct communication, with Trump confirming on his Truth Social platform that further discussions and meetings are planned in both countries soon.

Brazilian Vice-President Geraldo Alckmin expressed optimism about the talks, calling the conversation “better than expected.” Lula also extended invitations to Trump for upcoming international events, including the UN climate summit in Belém and the ASEAN summit in Malaysia, underscoring Brazil’s efforts to deepen diplomatic and economic engagement.

Trump has designated Secretary of State Marco Rubio to lead negotiations with Brazilian officials on tariff issues, signaling a sustained US focus on this strategic partnership despite political complexities within both nations.This dialogue reflects a renewed attempt to mend tensions that had escalated following Trump’s tariff hikes earlier in the year, which had strained cooperation and sparked accusations of foreign interference from Lula.

The international community watches closely as these dialogues may set the tone for future US-Brazil relations.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar