Haddad acknowledges disagreements within the government, defends a 'strong state,' and highlights the PT's support.

247 - Finance Minister Fernando Haddad (PT) said on Monday (22) that disagreements within the government are part of politics and do not surprise him. During an event promoted by BTG Pactual, in São Paulo, Haddad stressed that taking charge of the economy in a complex country like Brazil requires maturity and willingness to deal with internal and external disputes.

"It's naive to imagine that you're going to put in a Finance Minister who won't face debate. Those who don't like debate shouldn't take on the Finance Ministry. I wanted to take on the role knowing there would be controversy," the minister declared. For him, the clash of ideas is an essential part of politics, which deals directly with the demands of the population, such as wages, jobs, and living conditions.

Political conflicts and the country's complexity

Haddad cited as an example the difficulty in approving measures he considers fundamental, such as punishing habitual debtors and stricter rules for the fuel market. “We are in a complex country. If it weren't complex, Brazil would have a per capita income of US$50 per year. We have to convince people to do the right thing, be transparent, and confront the lobbies that operate in the country,” he stated.

The minister emphasized that, despite the obstacles, he believes in political cooperation as a tool to advance reforms and public policies. "It's beautiful to engage in political cooperation. You have to call the people in and talk, negotiate, show that it's the best path for the country," he said.

What does a strong state mean?

Haddad also advocated for a new understanding of the role of the State in Brazil. For him, a strong State is not one that spends without limits, but one that maintains fiscal balance and international credibility. "A strong State is a less indebted State, with the capacity to act in emergencies and attract investment. It is an operational State, capable of sitting at the table with major investors, transferring technology and betting on the future of the country," he declared.

The minister emphasized that both the right and the left hold misguided views about the role of the state and the path to sustainable development. "It is unacceptable for a country that wants to be great to coexist with the level of inequality that Brazil has. We need to find a path that unites growth and the reduction of inequality," he stated.

Support within the PT

Haddad also mentioned the Workers' Party's position regarding the fiscal framework approved by Congress. According to him, despite public criticism from some members, the party demonstrated majority support. "At the last PT meeting, they put to a vote whether or not to support the fiscal framework. The result was 80 to 20 in favor. Sometimes this majority is silent, it doesn't show up, but it supports it. Everyone knows that there are things that need to be done," he said.

In closing his speech, the minister reiterated that he will continue to seek dialogue with different political and economic sectors to build sustainable solutions for the country.