Paraguay rejects Lula's remarks on 19th-century war

Paraguay has officially voiced its "displeasure and rejection" to Brazil regarding President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva's recent comments about the 19th-century War of the Triple Alliance. The conflict, which significantly impacted relations between the neighboring nations, has become a point of contention following Lula's remarks suggesting Paraguay provoked the war.

Paraguayan Foreign Minister Rubén Ramírez and Vice President Pedro Alliana formally delivered a note of protest to the Brazilian ambassador in Asunción. The government also demanded the repatriation of historical trophies, archives, and documents from the war era that remain in Brazilian custody. Lula's statement, made to justify increasing Brazil's military budget, implied that Paraguay initiated the 1864-1870 war, which also involved Argentina and Uruguay.

The Paraguayan government's note expressed regret over the "distorted presentation of historical facts of singular relevance to the Paraguayan people." The document emphasized that historical events deeply affecting both nations should be addressed with responsibility and a spirit of reconciliation, grounded in mutual respect and an acknowledgment of the complexities that shaped their development. Vice President Alliana added that such distortions do not contribute to consolidating a common future but instead revive old wounds that affect dignity.

“

La distorsión de los hechos históricos no contribuye a consolidar el futuro común de nuestros pueblos