FO Minister Bill Rammel will visit Brazil.

Speaking ahead of his trip, Mr Rammell said:

'The partnership between the UK and Brazil is strong and growing deeper. As an emerging power on the international stage, Brazil is playing an increasingly important role in climate change negotiations and engagement with Africa. The Prime Minister's invitation to President Lula to attend the G8 summit in July is recognition of that.

'During my visit I will be taking part in political talks in Brasilia with Samuel Guimaraes, Secretary General of the Brazilian MFA, and plan to call on Foreign Minister Amorim. On the table for discussion will be UN reform, G8 issues, trade policy, and a range of bilateral matters.

'I will also be meeting with Sports Minister Agnelo Queiroz and members of the Rio 2007 Pan American Games organising committee to learn about their plans and to share experiences in organising large scale international sporting events.'