President Bush and his Brazilian counterpart Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva were to discuss plans to produce biofuels Friday during a meeting in Sao Paulo.
The two nations produce about 75 percent of the world's ethanol, and Brazil is the largest exporter. In remarks, Mr. Bush said the deal will create more jobs in Brazil. He also said nations should be good stewards of the environment.
Mr. Bush arrived in Sao Paulo Thursday, as more than 6,000 protesters staged demonstrations against his visit. Parts of the demonstration turned violent when some protesters began throwing rocks. Riot police responded by firing tear gas and clubbing some protesters. Protests also took place Thursday in Colombia, ahead of a visit by Mr. Bush on Sunday.
The White House says the reason for Mr. Bush's six-day visit to Latin America is goodwill, to highlight the fight against poverty in the region. But critics say the trip is more likely meant to counter the growing influence of Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez, a vehement critic of the Bush administration.
Mr. Chavez has declared he will attend an anti-Bush rally Friday in Argentina, held as Mr. Bush visits neighboring Uruguay later in the day. Mr. Bush has said he welcomes the planned rally, because he loves freedom and the right of people to express themselves.
In addition to Brazil and Uruguay, Mr. Bush plans to visit Colombia, Guatemala, and Mexico, all of whom enjoy good relations with the United States. - VOA News
Posted March 9th, 2007 by Dinka
