Incoming Paraguayan President Santiago Peña expressed his desire for Brazil to grant access to its records pertaining to the historical conflict between the two countries.
He also expressed interest in repatriating Paraguayan military artifacts currently housed in various Brazilian museums, as Folha de S.Paulo newspaper reported.
Peña, an economist who has previously served at the International Monetary Fund, is participating in a national election for the first time. His presidential tenure is set to commence in August.
In his dialogue, Peña affirmed: “I harbor no bitterness, rage, or malice, but I believe dialogue could be beneficial.”
“I would be interested in engaging in such a conversation with President Lula, focusing on positivity.”
The incoming Paraguayan leader also emphasized that understanding the events of the war, the most significant conflict in Latin American history from 1864 to 1870, could benefit both nations, as stated in Folha de S.Paulo.
This conflict, known as the Paraguayan War or the War of the Triple Alliance, was the bloodiest war in Latin American history, involving Paraguay and the Triple Alliance of Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay.
His comments also hint at a willingness to engage in open and constructive dialogue with Brazil, specifically with Brazilian President Lula.
This could set a positive tone for bilateral relations under his presidency, focusing on shared history and mutual understanding rather than conflicts and disagreements.
The full impact of this approach will become clearer once Peña’s presidency begins in August.