The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MRE; Portuguese: Ministério das Relações Exteriores; literally: Ministry of External Relations) conducts Brazil's foreign relations with other countries. It is commonly referred to in Brazilian media and diplomatic jargon as Itamaraty, after the palace which houses the ministry (originally in Rio de Janeiro, and currently in a second location which also bears this name in Brasília). Since 29 March 2021, the minister responsible is Carlos Alberto França. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs operates the Rio Branco Institute and the Alexandre de Gusmão Foundation.