São José dos Campos - Speaking at the presentation ceremony of the new Embraer 190 passenger jet yesterday, president Luiz Inàcio Lula da Silva declared that Brazil is a modern country that is a winner in farm production, and a strong exporter of raw material and goods of ever greater aggregated value.

With regard to the Embraer 190, Lula pointed out that it increases Brazil's capacity to compete on equal terms in the world's most advanced markets. "I really believe we will soon be one of the world's great aircraft producers," said the president.

The new Embraer 190 passenger jet will cost US$30 million. There are already 110 orders for the plane. It is the largest commercial aircraft ever made in Brazil.

Lula said he was proud of Embraer workmanship, calling Embraer products equal to the best anywhere in terms of quality. He said it showed that Brazilian workers were capable. (AB)