UK Minister in Brazil to Talk Trade and Global Warming and Poverty

Gillian Merron, United Kingdom's Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Foreign Office, is in Brazil for a three-day visit with stops in Brazilian capital BrasÀ­lia, São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, according to a release from the Foreign Office.

In São Paulo, she visited NGO Pepe, a charity founded by British Missionaries that provides assistance to pre-school children from deprived backgrounds.

In Rio de Janeiro the Minister met State Governor Sérgio Cabral at Laranjeiras Palace and State Secretary for Sports, Márcia Lins. The Minister also visited the Wellstream factory, a major UK investment in Brazil.

On Thursday, December 11, the minister participated in high level political talks with the Brazilian Government in Brasí­lia with discussions covering a wide range of bilateral and global issues.

"Brazil is a powerhouse," Merron said. "Both in its own region and on the world stage. It is a friend and important partner in making progress on matters of mutual concern, such as trade, climate change and tackling global poverty.

"My visit has been both valuable in developing the relationship between the two countries as well as an opportunity to get a sense of the challenges Brazil faces and the benefits it enjoys."

Mercopress