Brasília, 17/1/2003 (Agência Brasil - ABr) - Yesterday minister Roberto Amaral, of Science and Technology and the American ambassador in Brazil, Donna Hrinak, met to discuss expanding scientific and technological relations between the two countries.

Amaral explained to the ambassador that his priority is to increase the well-being of Brazilians through science and technololgy. He proposed the creation of a management committee to oversee bilateral partnership endeavors in the sector.

Hrinak told journalists that the United States is interested in more cooperation in large scale projects, such as "forest protection and biosphere defense."

The ambassador also said that the US continues to be interested in Brazilian participation in the International Space Station. Under discussion is a previously agreed on contribution of a total of US$150 million by Brazil to the project, which Hrinak said could be reduced without endangering the participation of Brazilian astronaut Marcos Pontes.

Last year, because of spending restraints, Brazil did not make a contribution to the ISS. (AB)