Brasília - President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva called for a new world social contract to combat hunger and misery. The call was made during a video conference sponsored by the British Ministry of Finance entitled "Making globalization work for all". Lula's remarks were presented on tape to an audience in London.

In his talk, Lula said there is a danger of the world not reaching the targets set as part of the Millennium Development Goals. "Many countries need much more international funding," said Lula. "We need political will power and funds to eradicate hunger and extreme poverty, promote education and healthcare, and give workers more training."

Lula once again said he sees the fight against hunger as a fundamental element in the greater context of the war against international inequality and the quest for more social justice, sustainable growth, human development and peace.

Lula also reviewed his idea of an International Financing Mechanism, or other alternative financing mechanisms, that would be used to pay for the fight against hunger worldwide. The immediate goal would be to double the amount of financial aid rich nations give to poor nations. (AB)