Brazil warns against U.S. labeling drug trafficking as terrorism in Latin America

SAO PAULO, Nov. 4 (Xinhua) -- The Brazilian government on Tuesday voiced concern over possible new conflicts in Latin America as the United States advances efforts to classify drug trafficking as a form of terrorism.

Celso Amorim, chief advisor to President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, told local media that the world is facing a moment of "total disorder," driven by the use of U.S.-promoted labels that could justify military action.

He pointed to Washington's recent strategy of launching attacks against suspected drug trafficker vessels in Latin America and labeling organized crime groups as terrorist organizations.

"This division between 'narco-terrorism' and other labels may justify military attacks that otherwise wouldn't happen. It's all very worrisome," Amorim said.

The issue goes beyond trade, Amorim said, referring to the ongoing negotiations over the 50 percent tariffs the United States imposed on Brazilian products.

Despite the tensions, Amorim said Brazil remains a stable democracy and "an indispensable partner for the international community in a world in desperate need of good news." ■