Brasília, February 18, 2004 (Agência Brasil - ABr) - President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva met yesterday (17) in the Planalto Palace with the President of Lebanon, Emile Lahoud. The purpose of Lahoud's visit is to intensify cooperation between the two countries, as well as to strengthen political dialogue and economic and commercial ties.

Agreements in the area of trade and electric energy were also on the agenda. The two Presidents will also discuss preparations for a summit conference planned to take place this year in Brazil among leaders of Arab and South American countries.

In the bilateral sphere, discussions will involve preparations for the first meeting of the High-Level Cooperation Commission, intended to deepen relations between Brazil and Lebanon through regular meetings between government officials of both countries. (DAS)