São Paulo, 12/17/2002 (Agência Brasil - ABr) - Yesterday president Fernando Henrique Cardoso was named Brazilian of the Decade by the publishing house, Editora Três.

During his acceptance speech, Cardoso recalled the first time he met Lula, in 1966, when the latter was a secretary at a labor union in São Bernardo do Campo (SP).

"The reason it is possible for us to make the present political transition, in such a civilized manner, is because way back then we began to make this country a little more civilized," said Cardoso, adding that he wants a Brazil that moves ahead more and more, for the wellbeing of children and grandchildren.

Cardoso also said that differences of opinion between people of goodwill were no problem. Brazil, he said, needs the efforts of everyone to build its future. "I dedicate this award to the future of Brazil," concluded the president. (AB)