Brasília, May 31, 2004 (Agência Brasil) - President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva said today that he is confident that Brazil's Armed Forces will do their duty to carry peace to Haiti and reestablish democracy there. "The maintenance of peace has a price. And this price is participation. By sending the Armed Forces to Haiti, we are discharging our responsibility in the international arena," Lula affirmed at a send-off ceremony for 150 members of the Brazilian military on their way to Haiti.

Lula also extended his message of support and confidence to the Brazilian troops who left for Haiti on Friday (28). Of the 150 who embarked today, 120 are from the Army and 30 from the Navy. 220 military personnel had already departed (182 by sea and 40 by air).

The Brazilians who are already in Haiti will take over command of the United Nations Peace Forces tomorrow (1). Another 846 Brazilian military personnel will leave for Haiti on June 18.

According to Brigadier-General Américo Salvador de Oliveira, who is leading the Brazilian troops, all the members of the contingent are confident and prepared to carry out their mission.

Reporter: Ana Paula Marra
Translator: David Silberstein