Paraguay summons Brazilian ambassador over Lula's remarks on War of the Triple Alliance

Paraguay's government summoned Brazil's ambassador and delivered an official note of protest following remarks made by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva regarding the origins of the 19th-century war between the two nations.

Key points

• Paraguayan President Santiago Peña contacted Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva by telephone after the statements caused public criticism and regional tension.
• The controversial remarks were made by President Lula da Silva on July 24, when he stated that Paraguay initiated the conflict by invading Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay.
• Brazilian ambassador José Antônio Marcondes de Carvalho is scheduled to meet with Paraguayan Vice President Pedro Alliana to receive the formal expression of dissatisfaction.

Why it matters

The diplomatic friction highlights historical sensitivities surrounding the War of the Triple Alliance and underscores ongoing diplomatic fragility in bilateral relations between Brazil and Paraguay.