Monterrey (Mexico), 1/13/2004 (Agência Brasil - ABr) - Presidents Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Hugo Chavez, of Venezuela, had lunch yesterday. Their conversation dealt with bilateral relations and integration, including Petrobras operations in natural gas, Brazilian Development Bank credit and the G-15 developing nation block. Lula was invited to visit Caracas.

Foreign Minister Celso Amorim called the differences of opinion between Venezuela and the US counterproductive. "We have just completed an agreement between Mercosur and the Andean Community, where Venezuela is an important player. We are focusing on the positive aspects of the situation," said the minister.

MEXICO

In his meeting with Vicente Fox of Mexico, Lula called for a Mercosur-Mexico agreement. Amorim said it would be worthwhile to work hard to get that agreement. "We see Mercosur and South America as fundamental partners for Mexico. Strong relations with Mexico is an important element in our efforts to diversify our trading partners," said Amorim.

PERU

Lula and Alejandro Toledo of Peru discussed South American integration, which Brazil considers a priority. They also talked about the FTAA. "They discussed bilateral issues, including the details of a bridge over the Acre River which would connect the two countries," said minister Amorim.

COLUMBIA

In talks with Alvaro Uribe, the focus was also on South American integration and bilateral relations which encompass credit for farm equipment and stronger commercial ties. (AB)