Brasília, May 10, 2004 (Agência Brasil) - The Brazilian Minister of Foreign Relations, Ambassador Celso Amorim, commented, after taking part in a meeting of the League of Arab States yesterday (9) in Cairo, that an initial process of negotiations is underway for a free trade agreement between Egypt and the Mercosur. Amorim also reported that he delivered an invitation from President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva to the President of Egypt, Hosni Mubarak - who has never visited South America - to participate in the Mercosur Summit, scheduled for this December in the Brazilian city of Ouro Preto (MG).

Amorim said that the outlook for business between Brazil and Egypt is very good. "If our exports [to Egypt] maintain their current pace, they should attain US$ 700 million this year."

The 22 foreign ministers from the countries that comprise the League of Arab States were present at the meeting, which also discussed the organization of the summit meeting between Arab and South American heads of government also scheduled for this December in Brazil. At this summit, Amorim revealed, the themes for discussion will include cooperation, finance, science and technology, culture, and strengthening the dialogue between the two regions. "We are very committed to this initiative," the Brazilian Chancellor affirmed.

Translator: David Silberstein