Rio, November 14, 2002 (Agência Brasil - ABr) – The National Steel Company (CSN) reports third quarter operational profits of R$454 million (US$125.2 million), up 234% over the same period in 2001. Cumulative profits for the year to September are up 56%, reaching R$895 million (US$ 246.8 million). The company also reports that it has been able to reduce its consolidated debt to US$700 million. (AB)