News Brief No. 02/109

News Brief: IMF Managing Director Köhler Congratulates Brazil's President-Elect

October 28, 2002

International Monetary Fund Managing Director Horst Köhler issued the following statement today after the election of Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva to the presidency of the Federative Republic of Brazil:

"The strong electoral result is another affirmation of Brazil's vibrant democracy and presents the President-elect with an historical opportunity to meet the economic and social aspirations of the people of Brazil.

"The management and staff of the International Monetary Fund have been privileged to enjoy a close working relationship with Brazil. Over the coming months, we look forward to working with President-elect da Silva and his new government to help create the conditions that would lead to sustained growth in Brazil."

Mr. Köhler in a letter to Mr. da Silva, stated that he looks forward to meeting with the President-elect and his economic team at the first convenient opportunity, and offered his best wishes for their success in facing the early and important challenges that lie ahead.