Washington, 12/11/2002 (Agência Brasil - ABr) - In a speech yesterday during his visit to the United States, president-elect Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva declared that he is aware of the problems he will have to face when he becomes president on January 1. Lula said he knows that the situation he is inheriting is a difficult one. "Domestically, debt has risen sharply over the last few years. Abroad, our corporations face a lack of credit unlike anything in the past. But even so, I am optimistic. Brazil is capable of overcoming these difficulties and achieving renewed growth that is sustainable," said Lula.

The president-elect promised that his administration would make the necessary changes in a gradual and transparent manner, based on fiscal restraint, control of inflation, and respect for international contracts and agreements. (AB)