Brasília, November 20, 2002 (Agência Brasil - ABr) - "From the Brazilian point of view, trade liberalization is not an end in itself. More than anything else, it is a means to promote development, reduce income inequalities, and improve the quality and supply of jobs in the region." This affirmation, referring to the Free Trade Area of the Americas (FTAA), was made yesterday (19) by the minister of Foreign Relations, Celso Lafer, at the Parliamentary Summit on Continental Integration.

According to the minister, it is indispensable that countries bear in mind the concerns of civil society over the negotiations. In the minister's view, governments must make a constant effort to explain the negotiating process, reduce opposition, and speak frankly with all interested sectors. He emphasized that no foreign policy, including international trade, is sustainable without the backing of public opinion. (DAS)