The secretary of Science, Technology, Development and Tourism of the State of São Paulo, Brazil, João Carlos Meirelles, said that his state will turn investment of over US$ 4 billion to infrastructure projects during the years of 2005 and 2006.
This statement was made today during the Brazil-Arab Countries Business Meeting in São Paulo, the financial capital of Brazil, organized by the Arab Brazilian Chamber of Commerce (CCAB).
“Part of these projects, however, will take place in partnership and will have full guarantees by the state government, which obeys world standards for contracts,” stated the secretary to an audience of businessmen.
He pointed out that the opportunities are not restricted to partnerships with the government, but also among the private sector.
Meirelles recalled that the state has the largest port in Latin America, Santos, and that it may be the natural route for products imported to South America from the Arab countries, and as a gateway for exports of Brazilian products to the Arab world.
On defending the partnership between the Arab nations and Brazil, Meirelles pointed out that the region may also be a re-exporter of Brazilian products. From the Arab ports, products could be distributed to Africa and Central Asia.
Anba