Brazil's Lula urges tariffs resolution in call with Trump

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva urged US counterpart Donald Trump in a phone call on Friday, to resolve their countries' trade dispute, saying US tariffs were imposed on "baseless" grounds.

Washington imposed two new sets of tariffs on the Latin American giant in July, a move that has become a key campaign issue ahead of Brazil's presidential election in October. Lula -- seeking a fourth and final term -- told Trump that the tariffs "negatively affect both Brazil and the United States”. He said "To remain at the negotiating table is the best option for both countries".

The Brazilian presidency statement said the conversation between Trump and Lula lasted an hour and 20 minutes and "took place in a friendly and cordial tone."