São Paulo, December 9, 2002 (Agência Brasil - ABr) - The coordinator of the government transition team, Antônio Palocci, stated today that he views with great expectation and optimism the contacts that will be established tomorrow in Washington, by president-elect Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Palocci is a member of the delegation that will accompany Lula on this trip to the United States. He thinks that this trip can create a very favorable setting for the country in its international relations, diplomatic as well as trade, " which is fundamental to foreign accounts." As regards negotiations over the transition of the new Cabinet, Palocci said that the conversations are productive. (DAS)