Brasília, November 3, 2003 (Agência Brasil - ABr) - The head of the Civilian Advisory Staff of the Presidency, Minister José Dirceu, explained to representatives of United Nations social assistance agencies the government's plans to fulfill the "Goals of the Millenium," set by the UN in accordance with 189 countries and aimed at the economic emancipation of these countries and conquests in the social area. This took place at a luncheon on Friday (31).

Dirceu also stated that the government is committed to these goals and is working to fulfill them. "Each Ministry is evaluating the work that is being done in its area, and we have already asked the United Nations to help in this evaluation, to point out errors and inadequacies."

Among the goals set by the UN are the reduction of illiteracy and infant mortality; provision of better health and sanitary conditions for the population; erradication of child labor, elimination of slave labor, and improvements in housing, human rights, and public safety.

The Minister declared that increased revenues will allow the government to invest more next year in education, public safety, sanitation, and housing. "The unification of social programs will permit substantial savings, on the order of nearly R$ 500 million," he said. (DAS)