February 18, 2006
Brazilian Minister of Foreign Affairs confirmed dialogue and bonds with Caracas

(El Universal) - "Brazilian Minster of Foreign Affairs, Celso Amorim, defended President Chávez's legitimacy and the country's position as a dialogue facilitator between countries with controversies.

During a brief press conference in Lima, where he visited President Alejandro Toledo, Amorim said 'we think Chávez is a President elected by his people, by the majority, one of the few presidents who has presented himself to a recall vote and won'.

When asked about the hostile campaign against Venezuela leaded by the US, Minister Amorim added 'there cannot be any doubts about the legitimacy of Chávez's Administration'.

He confirmed having talked to US Secretary of State, Condolezza Rice, about a variety of issues, including countries in conflict.

'We understand there can be different perceptions regarding many issues', but he said his country has a 'strong friendship with Venezuela'.

'We are always there when they need us and are pleased to contribute with dialogue between two countries that are friends of Brazil', he said".