Speaking to Latin American and Caribbean leaders at the annual Rio Group meeting Thursday, Lula asked them to "persist in putting an end to discriminatory commercial practices against our products" and continue working for "access to larger and more visible international markets."
At the opening of the two-day summit, Lula said he was excited by the World Trade Organization's ruling in Brazil's favor against the United States.
Brazil made history in April when the WTO sided with its complaint that U.S. subsidies for cotton farmers unfairly increased production and lowered world cotton prices, making it impossible for Brazilian cotton growers to compete. It was the first time a developing nation registered and won a complaint in the WTO against an economic powerhouse.
In October, the United States filed a formal appeal with the WTO against the ruling hoping to overturn it, though that appears unlikely.
"It demonstrates that our cohesion permits us to advances in essential areas leading to economic growth and the creation of jobs," Lula said.
Copyright 2004 by United Press International
