São José dos Campos 2/9/2004 (Agência Brasil - ABr) - Minister of Defense José Viegas, speaking at the presentation of the Embraer 190 passenger aircraft in São José dos Campos, interior of the state of São Paulo, declared that with regard to the competitive bidding for a contract for Brazilian Air Force jet fighters, Brazilian national interests will be preserved. A final decision on the purchase of 12 new fighter jets should take place at the end of this year. That is seen as the first phase of a deal which could eventually be worth as much as US$1 billion.

"We seek to create opportunities for cooperation with domestic industry. That is part of our strategy. We wish to increase the participation of Brazilian industry in this area," declared the minister of Defense. (AB)