Rio - Minister of Finance, Antonio Palocci, says that in the economic area "Brazil is beginning to be a normal country," thanks to the efforts of not only the Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva administration, but other administrations before it.

Palocci said one of the principal factors in the country's sound economic situation was inflation control. It has resulted in real growth, employment and expansion. "Brazil is becoming a country with an economy that is sound and tidy. Looking ahead, I think we will have more than just a year or two of growth. The country is definitely on the road to stability. There is more wealth and it is being distributed better," said the minister.

In conclusion, Palocci pointed out that corporate profits and job creation were higher today than they have been in the last two decades.

translator: Allen Bennett