Brasília, November 14, 2002 (Agência Brasil - ABr) - Deputy José Dirceu, president of the PT, said yesterday (13) that he was initiating talks with the parties that backed Lula in both rounds of October's elections, to form a basis of support for the government in the Chamber and the Senate as well as to analyze the participation of these parties in the future administration. The deputy made this declaration immediately after meeting with representatives of the PTB, a party which will define its participation in the new administration in the weeks to come.

Dirceu affirmed that he is optimistic about the formation of a legislative majority in both the Chamber and the Senate, around the concrete objectives of the future administration. He also said that political alliances are necessary to deal with the problems. He added that, beginning next week, he will intensify talks concerning the participation of the parties that backed Lula, in the administration that takes office in January. (DAS)