Havana (Cuba), September 29, 2003 (Agência Brasil - ABr) - On Friday (26), Presidents Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, from Brazil, and Fidel Castro, from Cuba, participated in the signing of a dozen technical and commercial exchange agreements between the two countries. Among the documents they signed was one that envisions an exchange of technology between Brazil and Cuba for the manufacture of medications, such as vaccines made in Cuba using Brazilian technology. Also in the health area, there will be an exchange of professionals, with Brazilian physicians traveling to Cuba and vice-versa.

In the sports sector, the two countries will also strengthen their exchanges, with Brazilians teaching soccer and Cubans giving classes in gymnastics and track and field. The installation of a Petrobras base, to make possible the production of alcohol, which will be exported from Cuba to other countries, is being studied by the two governments. A US$ 20 million line of credit from the BNDES (National Economic and Social Development Bank) is also part of an agreement on the production of fuel alcohol.

President Lula concluded his trip to Cuba on Saturday (27). (DAS)