Rio, November 4, 2003 (Agência Brasil - ABr) - The president of the National Economic and Social Development Bank (BNDES), Carlos Lessa, declared today that the primary surplus (revenues minus expenditures, excluding interest payments) could be smaller in coming years. It is currently set at 4.25% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). "This would give the government more flexibility to enact social policies. I express my opinion and obey whatever is decided." Lessa also called for a reduction in interest rates so that Brazil can resume growth. (DAS)