Brasília, 8/14/2003 (Agência Brasil - ABr) - Yesterday president Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva admitted that Brazil still faces many difficulties before it becomes a just country. Speaking to recently promoted generals, Lula spoke of an "arduous road that has to be travelled," before Brazil can reduce the level of inequality that characterizes the country today. "There are numerous obstacles between us and the Brazil we all want and are fighting for. Our Armed Forces have an important role to play in overcoming those obstacles and I am certain they will fulfill their duty and not let us down," said the president.

Lula emphasized the importance of the Armed Forces in guaranteeing Brazilian sovereignty and defending the country. And he added that their activities go far beyond just defending borders. "The Brazilian Armed Forces have acted consistently in social assistance activities," Lula concluded. (AB)