Brazil and Guatemala Strengthen Ties

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva hosted a meeting Monday with Guatemala President Oscar Berger.

The two countries reached a defense agreement that will allow the exchange of technology, intelligence and personnel (for training purposes). The two countries will work closely in defense planning, research, and development.

The presidents also discussed energy policy, which included proposals on the possibility of transferring Brazilian biofuel technology in the transportation and energy sectors, strengthening trade ties, as well as the possibility of Brazil becoming involved in the discovery and exploration of oil fields in Guatemala.