Rio, 9/30/2003 (Agência Brasil - ABr) - The government will not allow any agreement with the International Monetary Fund to interfere with its development plans, says minister of Planning, Guido Mantega.

The minister pointed out that two years ago Brazil had a noose around its neck and needed the Fund. But the situation is different now, said Mantega, the country intends to achieve independence from the IMF and is pursuing its own monetary and fiscal policies.

Mantega concluded by saying that the IMF would not be permitted to interfere in Lula administration projects for areas such as industry, agriculture and foreign trade. (AB)