Brazil and Venezuela have expressed their readiness to fully restore diplomatic relations, marking a significant step toward reviving political dialogue and economic cooperation between the two neighboring South American countries.

Venezuelan Acting President Delcy Rodríguez met Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva on the sidelines of the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31) in Antalya. Following the meeting, the two leaders reaffirmed their willingness to re-establish bilateral relations at the highest political level.

In a statement, the Brazilian Presidency said the leaders "expressed their readiness to fully resume bilateral relations at the highest level." The two sides also discussed the possibility of expanding Brazilian investments in Venezuela's oil sector as part of broader efforts to strengthen economic cooperation.

Lula highlighted the economic importance of closer ties between the two countries and referred to the recent visits by Brazilian business delegations to Venezuela, describing them as an important step toward boosting trade and investment.

The leaders also explored ways to deepen commercial cooperation, including the continuation of negotiations on bilateral economic agreements. According to the Brazilian government, the two sides agreed that Brazilian Mines and Energy Minister Alexandre Silveira will visit Venezuela later this year to advance discussions on energy cooperation and investment opportunities.

During the meeting, Lula also reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening Brazil's relations with all South American countries during his new presidential term, emphasizing regional dialogue and cooperation as key priorities of his foreign policy.

The meeting, held on the margins of COP31, reflects renewed efforts by Brasília and Caracas to rebuild bilateral relations through diplomatic engagement, expanded trade, and cooperation in strategic sectors, particularly energy.(ILKHA)