Anti-lockdown protests have become a weekly affair at Brazil's Presidential palace. On May 17 Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro endorsed these demonstrations calling them a pure manifestation of democracy.

Bolsonaro flouts social distancing again: Welcomes anti-lockdown protests in Brazil

Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro continues to enjoy his lavish lifestyle while ignoring the deteriorating coronavirus situation in the country.&nbsp;

Recently, the president was spotted riding jet ski while Brazil has more than 156,061 cases of novel coronavirus and over 10,000 casualties making it the worst-hit country in South America.&nbsp;

Bolsonaro had initially planned a barbecue with 30 guests but due to criticism, he had to cancel the plan and instead rode a jet ski.&nbsp;

This move was heavily criticised on Twitter. Netizens lashed out on the Brazilian president for downplaying the coronavirus chaos.

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While more 10,000 Brazilians lose their lives with Covid-19 
 
THE INHUMAN PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC Jair Bolsonaro 
strolls by JET SKI <a href="https://twitter.com/BarackObama?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BarackObama</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/gatesfoundation?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@gatesfoundation</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/antonioguterres?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@antonioguterres</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/GretaThunberg?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GretaThunberg</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/UNHumanRights?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UNHumanRights</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/JeffBezos?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JeffBezos</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/BillGates?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BillGates</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/guardian?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@guardian</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/thetimes?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@thetimes</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/melindagates?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@melindagates</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MickJagger?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MickJagger</a> <a href="https://t.co/F3tG81Asfa">pic.twitter.com/F3tG81Asfa</a>
— maugustosza (@caneladevelho) <a href="https://twitter.com/caneladevelho/status/1259294945246052354?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"He didn't have his barbecue to commemorate the deaths of 10,000 Brazilians. But he did have a jet-ski ride on Paranoá Lake, together with jokes and buffoonery. <a href="https://twitter.com/jairbolsonaro?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@jairbolsonaro</a> is repugnant. Brazil does not deserve this." <a href="https://t.co/26YemLc7Kr">https://t.co/26YemLc7Kr</a>
— Franc Jonsn (@francjonsn) <a href="https://twitter.com/francjonsn/status/1259530726669770753?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Mr. Trump, I want to thank you for being such a great mentor to <a href="https://twitter.com/jairbolsonaro?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@jairbolsonaro</a>! It seams that is just a matter of time for our countries to became the leaders in the death toll of the virus! Thank you from Brazil!
— Alan_Leite (@AlanLReynal) <a href="https://twitter.com/AlanLReynal/status/1259669082401628162?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Despite Bolsonaro's criticism of lockdowns, governors and mayors of 27 states in the country have tightened the measures to contain the rapid spread of the virus.&nbsp;

Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro have been the hardest-hit in Brazil and have extended their measures until May 31.&nbsp;

On April 28, Bolsonaro had infamously responded to a reporter who asked him regarding 5,000 deaths due to virus in the country, he said: &nbsp;"So what? What do you want me to do?"

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 4 million worldwide on Monday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia.

COVID-19 has now infected 4,101,482 people worldwide and 282,700 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Around 1,408,771 people of that tally have recovered.

Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro continues to enjoy his lavish lifestyle while ignoring the deteriorating coronavirus situation in the country. Recently, the president was spotted riding jet ski while Brazil has more than 156,061 cases of novel coronavirus and over 10,000 casualties making it the worst-hit country in South America.

Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro continues to enjoy his lavish lifestyle while ignoring the deteriorating coronavirus situation in the country. Recently, the president was spotted riding jet ski while Brazil has more than 156,061 cases of novel coronavirus and over 10,000 casualties making it the worst-hit country in South America. Bolsonaro had initially planned a barbecue with 30 guests but due to criticism, he had to cancel the plan and instead rode a jet ski. This move was heavily criticised on Twitter. Netizens lashed out on the Brazilian president for downplaying the coronavirus chaos. While more 10,000 Brazilians lose their lives with Covid-19 THE INHUMAN PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC Jair Bolsonaro strolls by JET SKI @BarackObama @gatesfoundation @antonioguterres @GretaThunberg @UNHumanRights @JeffBezos @BillGates @guardian @thetimes @melindagates @MickJagger pic.twitter.com/F3tG81Asfa — maugustosza (@caneladevelho) May 10, 2020 × "He didn't have his barbecue to commemorate the deaths of 10,000 Brazilians. But he did have a jet-ski ride on Paranoá Lake, together with jokes and buffoonery. @jairbolsonaro is repugnant. Brazil does not deserve this." https://t.co/26YemLc7Kr — Franc Jonsn (@francjonsn) May 10, 2020 × Mr. Trump, I want to thank you for being such a great mentor to @jairbolsonaro! It seams that is just a matter of time for our countries to became the leaders in the death toll of the virus! Thank you from Brazil! — Alan_Leite (@AlanLReynal) May 11, 2020 × Despite Bolsonaro's criticism of lockdowns, governors and mayors of 27 states in the country have tightened the measures to contain the rapid spread of the virus. Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro have been the hardest-hit in Brazil and have extended their measures until May 31. On April 28, Bolsonaro had infamously responded to a reporter who asked him regarding 5,000 deaths due to virus in the country, he said: "So what? What do you want me to do?" Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 4 million worldwide on Monday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. COVID-19 has now infected 4,101,482 people worldwide and 282,700 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Around 1,408,771 people of that tally have recovered.

Brazilian President Bolsonaro rides jet ski amid coronavirus chaos in the country, netizens lash out

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-brazil-records-10627-deaths-155939-confirmed-cases-297712" hreflang="en">COVID-19: Brazil records 10,627 deaths, 155,939 confirmed cases</a>

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Sao Paulo, a state in southeastern Brazil with almost 46 million inhabitants, has seen more than 3,600 deaths and more than 44,400 cases. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-brazil-records-10627-deaths-155939-confirmed-cases-297712">READ MORE</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-vladimir-putin-urges-citizens-to-unite-amid-toned-down-victory-day-celebration-297718" hreflang="en">Russian President Vladimir Putin urges citizens to 'unite' amid toned down Victory Day celebration</a>

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Putin's speech sent a message of "unity" as Russia fights coronavirus. The country has surpassed France and Germany to become the fifth worst-hit nation in terms of coronavirus outbreak. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-vladimir-putin-urges-citizens-to-unite-amid-toned-down-victory-day-celebration-297718">READ MORE</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/obama-describes-trump-handling-of-virus-as-chaotic-in-a-leaked-call-297714" hreflang="en">Obama describes Trump handling of virus as chaotic in a leaked call</a>

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Obama said the election "is so important because what we're going to be battling is not just a particular individual or a political party." <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/obama-describes-trump-handling-of-virus-as-chaotic-in-a-leaked-call-297714">READ MORE</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-releases-five-notable-labour-rights-activists-after-year-long-imprisonment-297713" hreflang="en">China releases five notable labour rights activists after year-long imprisonment</a>

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All five of them have been released on April 24 followed by a 14-day quarantine before they return home.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-releases-five-notable-labour-rights-activists-after-year-long-imprisonment-297713">READ MORE</a>

WATCH|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/3-children-have-died-in-new-york-from-a-mysterious-disease-297715" hreflang="en">3 children have died in New York from a mysterious disease</a>

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&nbsp;

COVID-19: Brazil records 10,627 deaths, 155,939 confirmed cases Sao Paulo, a state in southeastern Brazil with almost 46 million inhabitants, has seen more than 3,600 deaths and more than 44,400 cases.

COVID-19: Brazil records 10,627 deaths, 155,939 confirmed cases Sao Paulo, a state in southeastern Brazil with almost 46 million inhabitants, has seen more than 3,600 deaths and more than 44,400 cases. READ MORE Russian President Vladimir Putin urges citizens to 'unite' amid toned down Victory Day celebration Putin's speech sent a message of "unity" as Russia fights coronavirus. The country has surpassed France and Germany to become the fifth worst-hit nation in terms of coronavirus outbreak. READ MORE Obama describes Trump handling of virus as chaotic in a leaked call Obama said the election "is so important because what we're going to be battling is not just a particular individual or a political party." READ MORE China releases five notable labour rights activists after year-long imprisonment All five of them have been released on April 24 followed by a 14-day quarantine before they return home. READ MORE WATCH| 3 children have died in New York from a mysterious disease ×

Morning News Brief: Brazil witnesses spike in COVID cases, Russia celebrates Victory Day and more

In the battle against the coronavirus in Brazil, authorities in Rio de Janeiro imposed a mandatory use of masks for people walking on streets or using public transportation services. According to local media reports, only homemade and common masks are made compulsory for the public while professionals masks are kept for medical workers only to avoid any shortages.

Even statues in Brazil wear face masks amid coronavirus outbreak

Brazilian envoy to India Andre Aranha Correa do Lago spoke to WION's Diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal. Envoy Andre Aranha Correa do Lago said," Modi and President Bolsonaro have very strong faith" and also talked about his country's request for hydroxychloroquine, called as game-changer in the fight against COVID.

WION Exclusive conversation with Brazilian envoy Andre Aranha Correa do Lago

Brazilian Envoy to India has said that Brazilian President Bolsonaro is interested in Hinduism and in the "richness of Indian religious traditions" even as the Latin American leader wrote a letter to Indian PM which had references to Ramayana.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/on-hanuman-jayanti-brazilian-president-writes-to-pm-modi-makes-references-to-ramayana-sanjeevani-booti-291291">Also read: On Hanuman Jayanti, Brazilian president writes to PM Modi; makes references to Ramayana, Sanjeevani booti</a>

Speaking to WION's Diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Envoy Andre Aranha Correa do Lago said," Modi and President Bolsonaro have very strong faith" and also talked about his country's request for hydroxychloroquine, called as game-changer in the fight against COVID.

WION: Brazilian President and PM Modi spoke, what were the key points of conversations?

Andre Aranha Correa do Lago: After the visit of President Bolsonaro to India, there was a clear understanding between our 2 leaders that they have to coordinate the major issues that were happening in the world because our 2 countries are acquiring completely different profile in the world and obviously with the incredible pandemic and this challenge our leaders had to speak about it and so they spoke about this issue from different points of views and naturally President mentioned the importance of pharmaceutic dimension of our relationship.

WION: You requested for hydroxychloroquine..why is it important for you?

Andre Aranha Correa do Lago: Because most of our factories in Brazil produce hydroxychloroquine from substances that come from India, so we need it for our main producers, they will need it coming from India. So this is a great hope that has been presented in the fight against COVID 19, issues were mentioned.

WION: President Bolsonaro wrote a letter to PM Modi, mentioned Ramayana, Hanuman and Sanjeevani Booti, what was the thought process behind it?

Andre Aranha Correa do Lago: Yes, you know, you have to remember that two things were very clear for President Bolsonaro when he came to India, first he was fascinated by the religious tradition of India and he started to be very interested in Hindusim and the richness of Indian religious traditions. Another side is President Bolsonaro is a very religious man, so I believe that he was very much inspired by that and remembering both Modi and him are true believers and have very strong faith that is I believe he decided to put that quotation that shows although we have a different religion, in our religion, we have the profile and Ideas that are linked to the support that everyone has to give to each other in such crisis. Today is Hanuman Jayanti, all these signs are very very interesting.

Brazilian Envoy to India has said that Brazilian President Bolsonaro is interested in Hinduism and in the "richness of Indian religious traditions" even as the Latin American leader wrote a letter to Indian PM which had references to Ramayana.

Brazilian Envoy to India has said that Brazilian President Bolsonaro is interested in Hinduism and in the "richness of Indian religious traditions" even as the Latin American leader wrote a letter to Indian PM which had references to Ramayana. Also read: On Hanuman Jayanti, Brazilian president writes to PM Modi; makes references to Ramayana, Sanjeevani booti Speaking to WION's Diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Envoy Andre Aranha Correa do Lago said," Modi and President Bolsonaro have very strong faith" and also talked about his country's request for hydroxychloroquine, called as game-changer in the fight against COVID. WION: Brazilian President and PM Modi spoke, what were the key points of conversations? Andre Aranha Correa do Lago: After the visit of President Bolsonaro to India, there was a clear understanding between our 2 leaders that they have to coordinate the major issues that were happening in the world because our 2 countries are acquiring completely different profile in the world and obviously with the incredible pandemic and this challenge our leaders had to speak about it and so they spoke about this issue from different points of views and naturally President mentioned the importance of pharmaceutic dimension of our relationship. WION: You requested for hydroxychloroquine..why is it important for you? Andre Aranha Correa do Lago: Because most of our factories in Brazil produce hydroxychloroquine from substances that come from India, so we need it for our main producers, they will need it coming from India. So this is a great hope that has been presented in the fight against COVID 19, issues were mentioned. WION: President Bolsonaro wrote a letter to PM Modi, mentioned Ramayana, Hanuman and Sanjeevani Booti, what was the thought process behind it? Andre Aranha Correa do Lago: Yes, you know, you have to remember that two things were very clear for President Bolsonaro when he came to India, first he was fascinated by the religious tradition of India and he started to be very interested in Hindusim and the richness of Indian religious traditions. Another side is President Bolsonaro is a very religious man, so I believe that he was very much inspired by that and remembering both Modi and him are true believers and have very strong faith that is I believe he decided to put that quotation that shows although we have a different religion, in our religion, we have the profile and Ideas that are linked to the support that everyone has to give to each other in such crisis. Today is Hanuman Jayanti, all these signs are very very interesting.

Brazil president interested in Hinduism, says envoy on references to Ramayana in letter by Bolsonaro

Famous politicians who got tested for or have contracted coronavirus

Twitter on Sunday removed two tweets by Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro for not confirming to public health guidelines on coronavirus.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazils-bolsonaro-questions-coronavirus-deaths-says-sorry-some-will-die-289037">Also Read: Brazil's Bolsonaro questions coronavirus deaths, says 'sorry, some will die'</a>

The social networking site while taking down the tweets said that it had recently expanded its global rules on managing content that contradicted public health information from official sources and could put people at greater risk of transmitting COVID-19.

In the now deleted video, Bolsonaro told a street vendor: "What I have been hearing from people is that they want to work."

"What I have said from the beginning is that 'we are going to be careful, the over-65s stay at home,'" he said.

"We just can't stand still, there is fear because if you don't die of the disease, you starve," the vendor told Bolsonaro, who responded, saying: "You're not going to die!".

In another deleted video, the Brazilian president called for "return to normality" while questioning quarantine measures imposed by government officials across the country.

Bolsonaro&nbsp;had earlier said "some people will die, they will die, that's life" while describing the consequences of the coronavirus outbreak in the country leading to a huge controversy.

There are over 3,400 cases of the COVID-19 in Brazil with 92 deaths reported.

Twitter on Sunday removed two tweets by Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro for not confirming to public health guidelines on coronavirus. Also Read: Brazil's Bolsonaro questions coronavirus deaths, says 'sorry, some will die' The social networking site while taking down the tweets said that it had recently expanded its global rules on managing content that contradicted public health information from official sources and could put people at greater risk of transmitting COVID-19.

Twitter on Sunday removed two tweets by Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro for not confirming to public health guidelines on coronavirus. Also Read: Brazil's Bolsonaro questions coronavirus deaths, says 'sorry, some will die' The social networking site while taking down the tweets said that it had recently expanded its global rules on managing content that contradicted public health information from official sources and could put people at greater risk of transmitting COVID-19. In the now deleted video, Bolsonaro told a street vendor: "What I have been hearing from people is that they want to work." "What I have said from the beginning is that 'we are going to be careful, the over-65s stay at home,'" he said. "We just can't stand still, there is fear because if you don't die of the disease, you starve," the vendor told Bolsonaro, who responded, saying: "You're not going to die!". In another deleted video, the Brazilian president called for "return to normality" while questioning quarantine measures imposed by government officials across the country. Bolsonaro had earlier said "some people will die, they will die, that's life" while describing the consequences of the coronavirus outbreak in the country leading to a huge controversy. There are over 3,400 cases of the COVID-19 in Brazil with 92 deaths reported.

Twitter removes Bolsonaro's posts for 'contradicting public health information'

US President Donald Trump has agreed to take the test for the COVID19&nbsp; but kept it secret.

Asked by a reporter who accused him on Friday of being "selfish" for not getting himself tested after been seen in the company of someone who had been infected with the virus, Trump said that he will "most likely".

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-chaos-spreads-globally-trump-declares-us-emergency-286308">Coronavirus chaos spreads globally, Trump declares US emergency</a>

But he added that he won't react to the accusation that he was being selfish, alleged&nbsp;by the reporter.

"Not for that reason, but because I think I will do it anyway. Fairly soon."

The President`s physician Sean Conley later issued a letter that Trump however, did not need a test or a quarantine.

Trump had posed for a picture at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida last week with Fabio Wajngarten, the communications chief of visiting Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, at a dinner.

Wajngarten was later found to be infected with COVID-19. Bolsonaro shot down rumours that he was also infected with the virus, tweeting that a test had cleared him.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-coronavirus-spread-not-inevitable-mulls-new-travel-bans-donald-trump-282969">US coronavirus spread 'not inevitable,' mulls new travel bans: Donald Trump</a>

Conley said there was no need for Trump to be quarantined because his interactions were considered low-risk under the guidelines of the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention.

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Letter from the White House doctor: <a href="https://t.co/SretJtufHD">pic.twitter.com/SretJtufHD</a>
— Zeke Miller (@ZekeJMiller) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZekeJMiller/status/1238675964365877251?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Referring to the Brazilian official, Conley said it was only a brief contact "photograph, handshake".

Conley said that they had learned on Friday evening that another person who had shared the dinner table with Trump and the White House delegation had shown COVID-19 symptoms, but only on Friday morning.

The person has not been identified.

Conley added that since Trump does not have any symptoms, he did not need to be tested.

Trump and medical staff with him have said that people should undergo tests only when a doctor advises them to take them.

While there is a claim for tests amid a shortage of test kits, doctors and officials have been saying people that they need to be tested only on the advice of doctors.

US President Donald Trump has agreed to take the test for the COVID19 but kept it secret. Asked by a reporter who accused him on Friday of being "selfish" for not getting himself tested after been seen in the company of someone who had been infected with the virus, Trump said that he will "most likely".

US President Donald Trump has agreed to take the test for the COVID19 but kept it secret. Asked by a reporter who accused him on Friday of being "selfish" for not getting himself tested after been seen in the company of someone who had been infected with the virus, Trump said that he will "most likely". Also Read: Coronavirus chaos spreads globally, Trump declares US emergency But he added that he won't react to the accusation that he was being selfish, alleged by the reporter. "Not for that reason, but because I think I will do it anyway. Fairly soon." The President`s physician Sean Conley later issued a letter that Trump however, did not need a test or a quarantine. Trump had posed for a picture at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida last week with Fabio Wajngarten, the communications chief of visiting Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, at a dinner. Wajngarten was later found to be infected with COVID-19. Bolsonaro shot down rumours that he was also infected with the virus, tweeting that a test had cleared him. Also Read: US coronavirus spread 'not inevitable,' mulls new travel bans: Donald Trump Conley said there was no need for Trump to be quarantined because his interactions were considered low-risk under the guidelines of the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention. Letter from the White House doctor: pic.twitter.com/SretJtufHD — Zeke Miller (@ZekeJMiller) March 14, 2020 × Referring to the Brazilian official, Conley said it was only a brief contact "photograph, handshake". Conley said that they had learned on Friday evening that another person who had shared the dinner table with Trump and the White House delegation had shown COVID-19 symptoms, but only on Friday morning. The person has not been identified. Conley added that since Trump does not have any symptoms, he did not need to be tested. Trump and medical staff with him have said that people should undergo tests only when a doctor advises them to take them. While there is a claim for tests amid a shortage of test kits, doctors and officials have been saying people that they need to be tested only on the advice of doctors.

Donald Trump says he is ready to get tested for COVID-19

Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed Brazilian President Jair Messias Bolsonaro, who arrived on Friday for his four-day visit to India.

Prime Minister said that Bolsonaro's visit to India will add strength to India-Brazil relations.

"A warm welcome to President Jair Messias Bolsonaro! We are delighted to host him and we look forward to his taking part in our Republic Day celebrations. His visit will add strength to India-Brazil relations," tweeted Prime Minister Modi.

The visit of Brazilian President, who is the Chief Guest of Republic Day Parade, is aimed at strengthening bilateral relations in the fields of agriculture, energy, and defence.

Bolsonaro was accompanied by a high-level delegation comprising several ministers, senior officials, chairman of Brazil-India Friendship Group in the Brazilian Parliament, and businessmen.

The second day of his visit is packed with several engagements, including his meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which will subsequently be followed by the exchange of agreements between India and Brazil in different fields.

Brazilian Ambassador to New Delhi Andre Aranha Correa do Lago had told ANI on Tuesday that the two countries would ink over 15 agreements and launch a plan of action for the strategic partnership during Bolsonaro's visit.

"We are going to exchange more than 15 agreements with the government and institutions. We are also going to launch a plan of action for our strategic partnership. We want to make our strategic partnership more dynamic. The plan of action will be launched by the two leaders (Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bolsonaro)," the Ambassador had said.

Andre had also said that the focus of the visit would be on strengthening bilateral relationships in the fields of energy, agriculture, and defence.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed Brazilian President Jair Messias Bolsonaro, who arrived on Friday for his four-day visit to India. Prime Minister said that Bolsonaro's visit to India will add strength to India-Brazil relations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed Brazilian President Jair Messias Bolsonaro, who arrived on Friday for his four-day visit to India. Prime Minister said that Bolsonaro's visit to India will add strength to India-Brazil relations. "A warm welcome to President Jair Messias Bolsonaro! We are delighted to host him and we look forward to his taking part in our Republic Day celebrations. His visit will add strength to India-Brazil relations," tweeted Prime Minister Modi. The visit of Brazilian President, who is the Chief Guest of Republic Day Parade, is aimed at strengthening bilateral relations in the fields of agriculture, energy, and defence. Bolsonaro was accompanied by a high-level delegation comprising several ministers, senior officials, chairman of Brazil-India Friendship Group in the Brazilian Parliament, and businessmen. The second day of his visit is packed with several engagements, including his meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which will subsequently be followed by the exchange of agreements between India and Brazil in different fields. Brazilian Ambassador to New Delhi Andre Aranha Correa do Lago had told ANI on Tuesday that the two countries would ink over 15 agreements and launch a plan of action for the strategic partnership during Bolsonaro's visit. "We are going to exchange more than 15 agreements with the government and institutions. We are also going to launch a plan of action for our strategic partnership. We want to make our strategic partnership more dynamic. The plan of action will be launched by the two leaders (Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bolsonaro)," the Ambassador had said. Andre had also said that the focus of the visit would be on strengthening bilateral relationships in the fields of energy, agriculture, and defence.

PM Modi welcomes Brazilian President, says visit will strengthen India-Brazil relations

A frequent and fiery critic of Brazil's media, President Jair Bolsonaro declared Wednesday he would no longer speak to journalists.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-lost-my-memory-but-now-i-am-fine-says-brazilian-president-bolsonaro-after-release-from-hospital-270109">Also Read: I lost my memory, but now I am fine, says Bolsonaro&nbsp;</a>

Bolsonaro made the remarks outside his official residence in Brasilia where most mornings for the past year he has fielded questions from reporters and greeted fans.&nbsp;

"I want to speak with you, but the national journalism association says that when I speak, I attack them," Bolsonaro told reporters.

"As I am a person of peace, I will not give more interviews."&nbsp;

The move comes after the National Federation of Journalists said last week Bolsonaro's presidency had "significantly affected the freedom of the press in Brazil."

It registered 208 attacks - including physical and verbal - against the media or journalists in 2019, an increase of 54 per cent compared with the previous year.

Bolsonaro was responsible for more than half of the incidents, it said. He mostly used public statements such as speeches, interviews or tweets to attack the media.

Since his election campaign in 2018, Bolsonaro has often lashed out at reporters or outlets.

Bolsonaro said in July that US journalist Glenn Greenwald - who was charged with cybercrimes on Tuesday - could "do jail time" over the publication of leaked chats that threatened to undermine a massive corruption probe.

In a speech to the UN General Assembly in September, Bolsonaro accused the media of "lying" about the extent of fires raging in the Amazon.&nbsp;

The following month Bolsonaro announced he had cancelled his subscription to the respected daily Folha de S. Paulo.

He also threatened to cancel TV Globo's broadcasting license over a report linking him to a person accused of murdering a Rio de Janeiro councilwoman.

A frequent and fiery critic of Brazil's media, President Jair Bolsonaro declared Wednesday he would no longer speak to journalists. Also Read: I lost my memory, but now I am fine, says Bolsonaro Bolsonaro made the remarks outside his official residence in Brasilia where most mornings for the past year he has fielded questions from reporters and greeted fans.

A frequent and fiery critic of Brazil's media, President Jair Bolsonaro declared Wednesday he would no longer speak to journalists. Also Read: I lost my memory, but now I am fine, says Bolsonaro Bolsonaro made the remarks outside his official residence in Brasilia where most mornings for the past year he has fielded questions from reporters and greeted fans. "I want to speak with you, but the national journalism association says that when I speak, I attack them," Bolsonaro told reporters. "As I am a person of peace, I will not give more interviews." The move comes after the National Federation of Journalists said last week Bolsonaro's presidency had "significantly affected the freedom of the press in Brazil." It registered 208 attacks - including physical and verbal - against the media or journalists in 2019, an increase of 54 per cent compared with the previous year. Bolsonaro was responsible for more than half of the incidents, it said. He mostly used public statements such as speeches, interviews or tweets to attack the media. Since his election campaign in 2018, Bolsonaro has often lashed out at reporters or outlets. Bolsonaro said in July that US journalist Glenn Greenwald - who was charged with cybercrimes on Tuesday - could "do jail time" over the publication of leaked chats that threatened to undermine a massive corruption probe. In a speech to the UN General Assembly in September, Bolsonaro accused the media of "lying" about the extent of fires raging in the Amazon. The following month Bolsonaro announced he had cancelled his subscription to the respected daily Folha de S. Paulo. He also threatened to cancel TV Globo's broadcasting license over a report linking him to a person accused of murdering a Rio de Janeiro councilwoman.

I will not give more interviews, declares Bolsonaro

'Genocide, ethnocide, ecocide': Brazilian tribes call for protection of Amazon from Bolsonaro

Brazilian <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazilian-president-bolsonaro-released-from-hospital-after-slipping-in-bathroom-270058">President Jair Bolsonaro</a> who was released from hospital after he hit his head and fell told a television channel that he had temporarily lost his memory.

The Brazilian president had spent the night under observation in an Army hospital and was released later.

"At that moment I lost memory," Bolsonaro told a local television channel, adding, "the following day, this morning, I managed to get back a lot of things and now I am fine."

Bolsonaro's CT scan did not reveal any anomalies, doctors said after the president fell on his back in a bathroom at the Alvorada Palace his as his health continued to be a cause of concern.

In a message on Twitter, Bolsonaro, 64, picked passages from the Bible, saying: "For if one falls the other raises his mate; but woe to what is alone; for in the fall there will be no one to lift it up."&nbsp;

Last year, Bolsonaro was injured in a knife attack during a campaign tour. He has undergone four surgeries to treat the stab wound to his abdomen. He told the television channel that his health was "fine" even though he was quick to caution that "there are some consequences" of the stabbing.

Bolsonaro who came to power recently had earlier said that he was examined for skin cancer but no traces of the disease were found.

Later on Christmas Eve, a visibly happy president wished the country asserting on Twitter "inspired by the rebirth of Jesus Christ our Lord, let us also celebrate the rebirth of a great nation."

Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro who was released from hospital after he hit his head and fell told a television channel that he had temporarily lost his memory.

Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro who was released from hospital after he hit his head and fell told a television channel that he had temporarily lost his memory. The Brazilian president had spent the night under observation in an Army hospital and was released later. "At that moment I lost memory," Bolsonaro told a local television channel, adding, "the following day, this morning, I managed to get back a lot of things and now I am fine." Bolsonaro's CT scan did not reveal any anomalies, doctors said after the president fell on his back in a bathroom at the Alvorada Palace his as his health continued to be a cause of concern. In a message on Twitter, Bolsonaro, 64, picked passages from the Bible, saying: "For if one falls the other raises his mate; but woe to what is alone; for in the fall there will be no one to lift it up." Last year, Bolsonaro was injured in a knife attack during a campaign tour. He has undergone four surgeries to treat the stab wound to his abdomen. He told the television channel that his health was "fine" even though he was quick to caution that "there are some consequences" of the stabbing. Bolsonaro who came to power recently had earlier said that he was examined for skin cancer but no traces of the disease were found. Later on Christmas Eve, a visibly happy president wished the country asserting on Twitter "inspired by the rebirth of Jesus Christ our Lord, let us also celebrate the rebirth of a great nation."

I lost my memory, but now I am fine, says Brazilian President Bolsonaro after release from hospital

The President of Brazil, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazils-bolsonaro-hospitalized-for-domestic-accident-269902">Jair Bolsonaro</a> was released from the hospital today after he had hit his head in a fall at his official residence.&nbsp;

The 64-year-old leader was earlier wounded in a knife attack in September 2018 when he was campaigning for the presidential post.

According to his office, a cranial CT scan was done after the injury, but no anomalies were detected.&nbsp;

Bolsonaro spent the night in the Armed Forces Hospital in Brasilia under observation and was released "with the recommendation that he rest," the statement read.

The president's health has been a prime focus in Brazilian political discourse ever since he took over the presidency.

Most recently, he underwent surgery in September and has undergone three more surgeries to treat stab wounds.

Earlier this month, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wrong-to-say-reporter-had-a-homosexual-face-brazilian-president-bolsonaro-269518">Bolsonaro</a> said he had been examined for skin cancer.

Bolsonaro had slipped in his bathroom late on Monday.

(With inputs from agencies)

The President of Brazil, Jair Bolsonaro was released from the hospital today after he had hit his head in a fall at his official residence. The 64-year-old leader was earlier wounded in a knife attack in September 2018 when he was campaigning for the presidential post.

The President of Brazil, Jair Bolsonaro was released from the hospital today after he had hit his head in a fall at his official residence. The 64-year-old leader was earlier wounded in a knife attack in September 2018 when he was campaigning for the presidential post. According to his office, a cranial CT scan was done after the injury, but no anomalies were detected. Bolsonaro spent the night in the Armed Forces Hospital in Brasilia under observation and was released "with the recommendation that he rest," the statement read. The president's health has been a prime focus in Brazilian political discourse ever since he took over the presidency. Most recently, he underwent surgery in September and has undergone three more surgeries to treat stab wounds. Earlier this month, Bolsonaro said he had been examined for skin cancer. Bolsonaro had slipped in his bathroom late on Monday. (With inputs from agencies)

Brazilian president Bolsonaro released from hospital after slipping in bathroom

The president of Brazil, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-believe-god-is-brazilian-made-me-president-jair-bolsonaro-268197">Jair Bolsonaro</a> claimed that it was wrong for him to tell a journalist that he had ''the face of a homosexual''.

According to the news website G1, Bolsonaro told reporters, "I was wrong. I shouldn't have said it''.

The original comment by the president came in response to a reporter's question about an investigation into his eldest son, Senator Flavio Bolsonaro, for alleged money laundering when he was a regional deputy.

"You have the face of a homosexual, but that doesn't mean I'm going to accuse you of being a homosexual", Bolsonaro had told him.

Watch:&nbsp;Brazil’s Bolsonaro says ‘worst is yet to come’ on oil spill

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/brazils-bolsonaro-says-worst-is-yet-to-come-on-oil-spill-260025/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

He had earlier told Playboy magazine that he "wouldn't be able to love a gay son... I'd prefer a son to die in an accident".

"The investigation began last year and they've still found nothing," the president had recently said while referring to the case against his son.

Flavio Bolsonaro is suspected of having employed phantom employees whose salaries were then used to buy an apartment and a chocolate store. He denies all the charges.

The Brazilian Association of Investigative Journalism (ABRAJI) accused Bolsonaro of "promoting the moral harassment of journalists... (whose work) is fundamental for democracy." <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-president-jair-bolsonaro-says-he-has-a-possible-skin-cancer-267766">Bolsonaro</a> has been a frequent critic of the press.

The statement added that "[Bolsonaro] shames citizens and compromises the country's reputation."

The president is <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazils-president-blames-leonardo-dicaprio-for-financing-amazon-fires-offers-no-evidence-265337">nearing the end of his first year</a> in office.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The president of Brazil, Jair Bolsonaro claimed that it was wrong for him to tell a journalist that he had ''the face of a homosexual''. According to the news website G1, Bolsonaro told reporters, "I was wrong.

The president of Brazil, Jair Bolsonaro claimed that it was wrong for him to tell a journalist that he had ''the face of a homosexual''. According to the news website G1, Bolsonaro told reporters, "I was wrong. I shouldn't have said it''. The original comment by the president came in response to a reporter's question about an investigation into his eldest son, Senator Flavio Bolsonaro, for alleged money laundering when he was a regional deputy. "You have the face of a homosexual, but that doesn't mean I'm going to accuse you of being a homosexual", Bolsonaro had told him. Watch: Brazil’s Bolsonaro says ‘worst is yet to come’ on oil spill He had earlier told Playboy magazine that he "wouldn't be able to love a gay son... I'd prefer a son to die in an accident". "The investigation began last year and they've still found nothing," the president had recently said while referring to the case against his son. Flavio Bolsonaro is suspected of having employed phantom employees whose salaries were then used to buy an apartment and a chocolate store. He denies all the charges. The Brazilian Association of Investigative Journalism (ABRAJI) accused Bolsonaro of "promoting the moral harassment of journalists... (whose work) is fundamental for democracy." Bolsonaro has been a frequent critic of the press. The statement added that "[Bolsonaro] shames citizens and compromises the country's reputation." The president is nearing the end of his first year in office. (With inputs from agencies)

Wrong to say reporter had a 'homosexual face': Brazilian President Bolsonaro

Brazil President blames American actor Leonardo DiCaprio for Amazon fires. Jair Bolsonaro said that Leonardo funded the fires. Watch this video to know more.

Brazil President blames American actor Leonardo DiCaprio for Amazon fires

Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro will quit his fractious right-wing Social Liberal Party (PSL) and start a new one by March 2020, PSL lawmakers Daniel Silveira and Bia Kicis said on Tuesday after meeting with the president.

The PSL, which Bolsonaro joined as a vehicle to win the elections in October, is split down the middle over control of the party, though it is not clear how many of its 53 representatives and three senators will follow the president.

A meeting will be held on November&nbsp;21 to begin setting up the new party, which will be called Movimento pelo Brasil, or Movement for Brazil, Kicis told Reuters by telephone.

The split came to a head last month with an exchange of insults between the president and PSL founder Luciano Bivar, who has not wanted to hand over the reins to Bolsonaro and his sons.

At stake is 390 million reais ($94 million) in public campaign funds for municipal elections, an unprecedented war chest for the PSL, which rode Bolsonaro’s coattails to grow from a single lawmaker in Congress to the second-largest bench.

While senators, governors and mayors can freely switch parties, lower house lawmakers are subject to rules that bar them from continued access to the campaign funding if they swap parties.

"Several representatives plan to follow the president. We are prepared to lose the campaign funds because we want to found a new party to follow him," Kicis said.

Bolsonaro needs to gather 500,000 signatures to start a new party, and his supporters are confident he can achieve that through social media, a tool that greatly aided his successful run for president last year.

One of the PSL's three senators, Senator Soraya Thronicke from the farm-state of Mato Grosso, told Reuters she has not made up her mind yet.

If she stayed in the PSL, only one senator would follow Bolsonaro, his son Flavio Bolsonaro.

The breakup of the PSL is not expected to affect Brazil's economic reform agenda, which has ample backing in Congress.

But starting a new party could politically weaken Bolsonaro, who switched allegiances among eight parties during his 28 years in Congress before joining the PSL last year.

Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro will quit his fractious right-wing Social Liberal Party (PSL) and start a new one by March 2020, PSL lawmakers Daniel Silveira and Bia Kicis said on Tuesday after meeting with the president.

Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro will quit his fractious right-wing Social Liberal Party (PSL) and start a new one by March 2020, PSL lawmakers Daniel Silveira and Bia Kicis said on Tuesday after meeting with the president. The PSL, which Bolsonaro joined as a vehicle to win the elections in October, is split down the middle over control of the party, though it is not clear how many of its 53 representatives and three senators will follow the president. A meeting will be held on November 21 to begin setting up the new party, which will be called Movimento pelo Brasil, or Movement for Brazil, Kicis told Reuters by telephone. The split came to a head last month with an exchange of insults between the president and PSL founder Luciano Bivar, who has not wanted to hand over the reins to Bolsonaro and his sons. At stake is 390 million reais ($94 million) in public campaign funds for municipal elections, an unprecedented war chest for the PSL, which rode Bolsonaro’s coattails to grow from a single lawmaker in Congress to the second-largest bench. While senators, governors and mayors can freely switch parties, lower house lawmakers are subject to rules that bar them from continued access to the campaign funding if they swap parties. "Several representatives plan to follow the president. We are prepared to lose the campaign funds because we want to found a new party to follow him," Kicis said. Bolsonaro needs to gather 500,000 signatures to start a new party, and his supporters are confident he can achieve that through social media, a tool that greatly aided his successful run for president last year. One of the PSL's three senators, Senator Soraya Thronicke from the farm-state of Mato Grosso, told Reuters she has not made up her mind yet. If she stayed in the PSL, only one senator would follow Bolsonaro, his son Flavio Bolsonaro. The breakup of the PSL is not expected to affect Brazil's economic reform agenda, which has ample backing in Congress. But starting a new party could politically weaken Bolsonaro, who switched allegiances among eight parties during his 28 years in Congress before joining the PSL last year.

Brazil's Bolsonaro to quit divided PSL party, found new one

Brazil's President Jair Bolsonaro asked his supporters Saturday "not to give ammunition to the scoundrel," the day after popular leftist leader Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva walked free from jail.

Breaking his silence on the release of his arch-nemesis, Bolsonaro told his Twitter followers: "Lovers of freedom and good, we are a majority. We cannot make mistakes."

He added Lula was "momentarily free, but guilty."

Lula's exit from jail on Friday came a day after a controversial Supreme Court ruling that could release thousands of convicts.

In an impassioned address to hundreds of supporters who greeted him as he left the federal police headquarters in the southern city of Curitiba, Lula vowed to keep fighting for poor people.

He also denounced the economic policies of Bolsonaro, who was swept to power in 2018 in an election Lula had been widely tipped to win.

Brazil's President Jair Bolsonaro asked his supporters Saturday "not to give ammunition to the scoundrel," the day after popular leftist leader Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva walked free from jail.

Brazil's President Jair Bolsonaro asked his supporters Saturday "not to give ammunition to the scoundrel," the day after popular leftist leader Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva walked free from jail. Breaking his silence on the release of his arch-nemesis, Bolsonaro told his Twitter followers: "Lovers of freedom and good, we are a majority. We cannot make mistakes." He added Lula was "momentarily free, but guilty." Lula's exit from jail on Friday came a day after a controversial Supreme Court ruling that could release thousands of convicts. In an impassioned address to hundreds of supporters who greeted him as he left the federal police headquarters in the southern city of Curitiba, Lula vowed to keep fighting for poor people. He also denounced the economic policies of Bolsonaro, who was swept to power in 2018 in an election Lula had been widely tipped to win.

Bolsonaro asks Brazilians 'not to give ammunition' to Lula

The son of Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro said on Tuesday that he had dropped hopes of becoming the country's ambassador to the United States.

Eduardo Bolsonaro, 35, told fellow lawmakers in the Chamber of Deputies that he had made the decision partly due to lack of support, adding that his father had not influenced his choice.

"It was a decision I had been thinking about for a long time," he told local media in Brasilia.

"You listen to the advice of many people. There is also the issue of my electorate. I confess that the majority was not supportive."

The president this week said Eduardo, his third son, could help "pacify" his Social Liberal Party (PSL) that is split by bitter divisions.

Bolsonaro, a close ally of US President Donald Trump, first said in July that his son was on track to becoming the ambassador in Washington.

The son of Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro said on Tuesday that he had dropped hopes of becoming the country's ambassador to the United States. Eduardo Bolsonaro, 35, told fellow lawmakers in the Chamber of Deputies that he had made the decision partly due to lack of support, adding that his father had not influenced his choice.

The son of Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro said on Tuesday that he had dropped hopes of becoming the country's ambassador to the United States. Eduardo Bolsonaro, 35, told fellow lawmakers in the Chamber of Deputies that he had made the decision partly due to lack of support, adding that his father had not influenced his choice. "It was a decision I had been thinking about for a long time," he told local media in Brasilia. "You listen to the advice of many people. There is also the issue of my electorate. I confess that the majority was not supportive." The president this week said Eduardo, his third son, could help "pacify" his Social Liberal Party (PSL) that is split by bitter divisions. Bolsonaro, a close ally of US President Donald Trump, first said in July that his son was on track to becoming the ambassador in Washington.

Bolsonaro's son ditches plan to be US ambassador

Thousands of Brazilians demanded action on climate change on Friday, taking aim in nationwide protests at President Jair Bolsonaro who they say is allowing fires to destroy the Amazon rainforest, worsening the environmental crisis.

Global anxiety that not enough is being done on climate change has focussed on Brazil since August when it was revealed that fires in the Amazon have surged to their highest level since 2010.

Environmentalists blame right-wing Bolsonaro's policies favouring development over environmental protections for that and rising deforestation.

"The policy of the Bolsonaro government is the policy of environmental destruction and deepening the climate crisis ... this is why we're on strike," said Marcela Pimentel Miranda, an organizer for Youth for Climate's affiliate in Brasilia, which is helping to organise the protests.

On Twitter, Brazilians tweeted #EleNao and #ForaSalles, calls to reject Bolsonaro and oust Environment Minister Ricardo Salles. Protesters criticized and mocked the two leaders with signs and costumes.

Salles told Reuters on Thursday that the majority of the Amazon remains intact, showing that Brazil is doing an "excellent job" to preserve the environment. On Friday, Bolsonaro authorized the military to continue firefighting efforts in the Amazon for another month.

The Amazon is the world's largest tropical rainforest, 60 per cent of which lies in Brazil, and absorbs the vast amount of greenhouse gases.

Salles acknowledged the existence of man-made climate change and said protesters are right to be concerned about the future.

"I have children and I am concerned about their future too," he said in an interview.

The demonstrations in major Brazilian cities are among thousands of protests in a global "climate strike" ahead of next week's UN Climate Action Summit and New York Climate Week, where political, business and civil society leaders will gather to discuss the issue.

"I am going to New York to show the world that Bolsonaro's policies do not represent Brazil, there are other views," congresswoman Tabata Amaral, 25, a member of a new generation of Brazilian politicians, said by telephone.

Small protests in the morning gave way to major demonstrations with hundreds gathering in Rio and Brasilia, while more than two thousand amassed in downtown Sao Paulo.

A few dozen people, mostly students, gathered on the steps Rio's state assembly behind a banner reading "climate justice."

"For us to have a livable planet and future, air to breath, food, and water, we need to solve this problem now," said Julia Waddington, one of the protesters.

Thousands of Brazilians demanded action on climate change on Friday, taking aim in nationwide protests at President Jair Bolsonaro who they say is allowing fires to destroy the Amazon rainforest, worsening the environmental crisis.

Thousands of Brazilians demanded action on climate change on Friday, taking aim in nationwide protests at President Jair Bolsonaro who they say is allowing fires to destroy the Amazon rainforest, worsening the environmental crisis. Global anxiety that not enough is being done on climate change has focussed on Brazil since August when it was revealed that fires in the Amazon have surged to their highest level since 2010. Environmentalists blame right-wing Bolsonaro's policies favouring development over environmental protections for that and rising deforestation. "The policy of the Bolsonaro government is the policy of environmental destruction and deepening the climate crisis ... this is why we're on strike," said Marcela Pimentel Miranda, an organizer for Youth for Climate's affiliate in Brasilia, which is helping to organise the protests. On Twitter, Brazilians tweeted #EleNao and #ForaSalles, calls to reject Bolsonaro and oust Environment Minister Ricardo Salles. Protesters criticized and mocked the two leaders with signs and costumes. Salles told Reuters on Thursday that the majority of the Amazon remains intact, showing that Brazil is doing an "excellent job" to preserve the environment. On Friday, Bolsonaro authorized the military to continue firefighting efforts in the Amazon for another month. The Amazon is the world's largest tropical rainforest, 60 per cent of which lies in Brazil, and absorbs the vast amount of greenhouse gases. Salles acknowledged the existence of man-made climate change and said protesters are right to be concerned about the future. "I have children and I am concerned about their future too," he said in an interview. The demonstrations in major Brazilian cities are among thousands of protests in a global "climate strike" ahead of next week's UN Climate Action Summit and New York Climate Week, where political, business and civil society leaders will gather to discuss the issue. "I am going to New York to show the world that Bolsonaro's policies do not represent Brazil, there are other views," congresswoman Tabata Amaral, 25, a member of a new generation of Brazilian politicians, said by telephone. Small protests in the morning gave way to major demonstrations with hundreds gathering in Rio and Brasilia, while more than two thousand amassed in downtown Sao Paulo. A few dozen people, mostly students, gathered on the steps Rio's state assembly behind a banner reading "climate justice." "For us to have a livable planet and future, air to breath, food, and water, we need to solve this problem now," said Julia Waddington, one of the protesters.

Brazilian climate strikers take aim at Bolsonaro for Amazon fires

Brazil's President Jair Bolsonaro said Friday he will stop using disposable pens made by France's Bic to sign official documents, while a diplomatic spat continues over fires in the Amazon basin.&nbsp;

"A pen (of the Brazilian brand) Compactor and no more Bic, will work," Bolsonaro said, confirming remarks he made during a live broadcast on Facebook a day earlier.

Bolsonaro said Thursday he would stop using Bic "because it is French."

When asked by AFP if Bolsonaro was serious or joking, Brazil's presidential office declined to comment.

Most of the Bic ballpoint pens sold in Brazil are made in the French company's factory in the Brazilian city of Manaus in the Amazon, a Bic spokesperson told AFP. &nbsp;

Bolsonaro has previously cited Bic pens, which are cheap and commonly used in Brazil, as a sign of austerity after the expenses of his predecessors.&nbsp;

Bic said it felt "flattered" to be recognised as a "democratic brand," but would not comment on the president's decision.

Bolsonaro has repeatedly clashed with his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron in recent days.&nbsp;

On the eve of the G7 summit last week, Macron declared the forest fires, which are also affecting Bolivia, an "international crisis" and put them on the agenda of the gathering of the rich democracies.

Macron also accused Bolsonaro of lying to him about Brazil's climate change stance.

Bolsonaro in turn said Macron had a "colonialist mentality" and now refuses to speak to him unless the French president retracts remarks relating to Brazil's sovereignty over the Amazon.&nbsp;

Brazil's President Jair Bolsonaro said Friday he will stop using disposable pens made by France's Bic to sign official documents, while a diplomatic spat continues over fires in the Amazon basin.

Brazil's President Jair Bolsonaro said Friday he will stop using disposable pens made by France's Bic to sign official documents, while a diplomatic spat continues over fires in the Amazon basin. "A pen (of the Brazilian brand) Compactor and no more Bic, will work," Bolsonaro said, confirming remarks he made during a live broadcast on Facebook a day earlier. Bolsonaro said Thursday he would stop using Bic "because it is French." When asked by AFP if Bolsonaro was serious or joking, Brazil's presidential office declined to comment. Most of the Bic ballpoint pens sold in Brazil are made in the French company's factory in the Brazilian city of Manaus in the Amazon, a Bic spokesperson told AFP. Bolsonaro has previously cited Bic pens, which are cheap and commonly used in Brazil, as a sign of austerity after the expenses of his predecessors. Bic said it felt "flattered" to be recognised as a "democratic brand," but would not comment on the president's decision. Bolsonaro has repeatedly clashed with his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron in recent days. On the eve of the G7 summit last week, Macron declared the forest fires, which are also affecting Bolivia, an "international crisis" and put them on the agenda of the gathering of the rich democracies. Macron also accused Bolsonaro of lying to him about Brazil's climate change stance. Bolsonaro in turn said Macron had a "colonialist mentality" and now refuses to speak to him unless the French president retracts remarks relating to Brazil's sovereignty over the Amazon.

Brazil's Bolsonaro to stop using France's Bic pens amid spat

Now, Bolsonaro won't use French Bic ballpoint pens made in Brazil

Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro`s furious reaction to foreign criticism of his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-officials-bolsonaros-son-meet-with-trump-to-discuss-amazon-fires-246769">handling of Amazon fires</a> reflects the sacred place the vast region occupies in the minds of Brazil`s military, for whom the rainforest is almost a raison d`être.

While many around the world view the Amazon as a vital defence against climate change, within Brazil`s military the sparsely developed region represents a sprawling, resource-rich asset that they believe foreigners are desperate to control.&nbsp;

That helps explain why Bolsonaro, a far-right former army captain, reacted with fury to the world`s condemnation of his handling of the fires and initially slapped down many of its offers of help.&nbsp;

"There is foreign interest in the mineral wealth and biodiversity of the Amazon," retired General Paulo Chagas, a friend of Bolsonaro`s, told Reuters.

"When (foreigners) speak of protecting the Indians and the environment, that is just a cover to justify outside interference."&nbsp;

"President Bolsonaro believes this totally. It comes from the cradle, the military academy."

But the Amazon is not just a potent symbol of national sovereignty for the armed forces, officials, former soldiers and experts said.

&nbsp;It has also given Brazil`s embattled military, buffeted by budget cuts and demoralized after years of hostile leftist administrations, an area to defend on a continent where it faces few real foes. It maintains a significant presence in the Amazon, manning battalions, building roads and staffing military hospitals in the remote jungle region.

Xavier Arnauld, a French academic who has studied the military`s role in the Amazon, said the area was a vital part of the armed forces` identity.&nbsp;

"An army needs enemies," he said. "In peacetime, when a country has financial difficulties, the temptation to reduce the army`s budget is huge. With this discourse, the army doesn`t only justify its budget, but it also gives it a mission."

The jump in Amazon forest fires this year has created an international crisis for Bolsonaro, threatening his efforts to ignite Brazil`s sickly economy and trade more with the world.

As global outrage over the fires spread, many pointed fingers at Brazil`s president for rolling back environmental protections to benefit agribusiness producers.&nbsp;

Bolsonaro responded by suggesting, without providing evidence, that international non-governmental organizations may have started the blazes. He also chafed at offers of foreign aid, and told critics like French President Emmanuel Macron to mind their own business and stop disrespecting Brazil`s sovereignty.

Although Bolsonaro`s reaction may have surprised foreign leaders, his views have played better in Brazil, and particularly within the military. In response to foreign criticism, Bolsonaro finally announced this week that the army would help fight the fires.

Bolsonaro is an outspoken admirer of the 1964-85 military dictatorship, which took power in a US-backed coup to stop an alleged communist plot to take over Brazil. One of its main missions was opening Brazil`s vast interior to development.&nbsp;

His election immediately elevated the standing of the armed forces, which had grown increasingly restive under more than a decade of leftist administrations.

Since taking office in January, Bolsonaro has placed at least 10 senior army and navy officials in his cabinet, giving military ideology a strong voice in his administration.&nbsp;

Former generals in the cabinet include Vice President Hamilton Mourão, and national security advisor Augusto Heleno, who in 2008 resigned from the army`s top job in the Amazon after criticizing the then-leftist government`s indigenous policies.

In an op-ed this week, Mourão decried "an international campaign against Brazil... to neutralise Brazilian sovereignty over our part of the Amazon region."

Army history

The son of a wildcat miner who worked the Amazon`s illicit pits, Bolsonaro was imbued with a pioneer spirit from a young age. After passing through the Black Needles Military Academy, Brazil`s version of West Point, he enjoyed a short-lived military career, lacking in distinction.&nbsp;

"The Brazilian army... influences (Bolsonaro) in the sense that it is a school of patriotism underpinned by the idea of sovereignty... in the Amazon," Brazilian Foreign Minister Ernesto Araujo told Reuters.

Brazil`s military has long been at the forefront of Amazon exploration, joining with missionaries and land-hungry entrepreneurs who trekked deep into the jungle seeking exotic goods, indigenous souls and the outer limits of the new nation.

Yet aside from a brief war with Paraguay in the 19th century and an expeditionary force that joined the Allies during World War Two, Brazil`s military has seen little real combat. These days, the armed forces are mainly engaged in the odd public security mission, infrastructure projects and helping during natural disasters.&nbsp;

Arnauld said that during the 1960s, the dictatorship reframed ideas of the Amazon, arguing that developing the region was key to protecting national security.&nbsp;

That ideology was best summed up by government slogans from the time: "integrate so as not to forfeit" and "give a land without men to men without land".

The military`s presence in the region remains formidable.&nbsp;

"Here we have an economy that very much revolves around our soldiers," said Herivaneo Seixas, the mayor of Humaita, a town in Amazonas state which is also home to the immaculate 54th Jungle Infantry Battalion.&nbsp;

Tassio Franchi, an Amazon expert at the Brazilian Army Command and General Staff School, said the military`s fears were justified in a dangerous, lawless region, surrounded by the world`s top three cocaine-producing nations.&nbsp;

"It`s necessary to guarantee presence, the possession and control of the territory," he said.&nbsp;

Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro`s furious reaction to foreign criticism of his handling of Amazon fires reflects the sacred place the vast region occupies in the minds of Brazil`s military, for whom the rainforest is almost a raison d`être.

Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro`s furious reaction to foreign criticism of his handling of Amazon fires reflects the sacred place the vast region occupies in the minds of Brazil`s military, for whom the rainforest is almost a raison d`être. While many around the world view the Amazon as a vital defence against climate change, within Brazil`s military the sparsely developed region represents a sprawling, resource-rich asset that they believe foreigners are desperate to control. That helps explain why Bolsonaro, a far-right former army captain, reacted with fury to the world`s condemnation of his handling of the fires and initially slapped down many of its offers of help. "There is foreign interest in the mineral wealth and biodiversity of the Amazon," retired General Paulo Chagas, a friend of Bolsonaro`s, told Reuters. "When (foreigners) speak of protecting the Indians and the environment, that is just a cover to justify outside interference." "President Bolsonaro believes this totally. It comes from the cradle, the military academy." But the Amazon is not just a potent symbol of national sovereignty for the armed forces, officials, former soldiers and experts said. It has also given Brazil`s embattled military, buffeted by budget cuts and demoralized after years of hostile leftist administrations, an area to defend on a continent where it faces few real foes. It maintains a significant presence in the Amazon, manning battalions, building roads and staffing military hospitals in the remote jungle region. Xavier Arnauld, a French academic who has studied the military`s role in the Amazon, said the area was a vital part of the armed forces` identity. "An army needs enemies," he said. "In peacetime, when a country has financial difficulties, the temptation to reduce the army`s budget is huge. With this discourse, the army doesn`t only justify its budget, but it also gives it a mission." The jump in Amazon forest fires this year has created an international crisis for Bolsonaro, threatening his efforts to ignite Brazil`s sickly economy and trade more with the world. As global outrage over the fires spread, many pointed fingers at Brazil`s president for rolling back environmental protections to benefit agribusiness producers. Bolsonaro responded by suggesting, without providing evidence, that international non-governmental organizations may have started the blazes. He also chafed at offers of foreign aid, and told critics like French President Emmanuel Macron to mind their own business and stop disrespecting Brazil`s sovereignty. Although Bolsonaro`s reaction may have surprised foreign leaders, his views have played better in Brazil, and particularly within the military. In response to foreign criticism, Bolsonaro finally announced this week that the army would help fight the fires. Bolsonaro is an outspoken admirer of the 1964-85 military dictatorship, which took power in a US-backed coup to stop an alleged communist plot to take over Brazil. One of its main missions was opening Brazil`s vast interior to development. His election immediately elevated the standing of the armed forces, which had grown increasingly restive under more than a decade of leftist administrations. Since taking office in January, Bolsonaro has placed at least 10 senior army and navy officials in his cabinet, giving military ideology a strong voice in his administration. Former generals in the cabinet include Vice President Hamilton Mourão, and national security advisor Augusto Heleno, who in 2008 resigned from the army`s top job in the Amazon after criticizing the then-leftist government`s indigenous policies. In an op-ed this week, Mourão decried "an international campaign against Brazil... to neutralise Brazilian sovereignty over our part of the Amazon region." Army history The son of a wildcat miner who worked the Amazon`s illicit pits, Bolsonaro was imbued with a pioneer spirit from a young age. After passing through the Black Needles Military Academy, Brazil`s version of West Point, he enjoyed a short-lived military career, lacking in distinction. "The Brazilian army... influences (Bolsonaro) in the sense that it is a school of patriotism underpinned by the idea of sovereignty... in the Amazon," Brazilian Foreign Minister Ernesto Araujo told Reuters. Brazil`s military has long been at the forefront of Amazon exploration, joining with missionaries and land-hungry entrepreneurs who trekked deep into the jungle seeking exotic goods, indigenous souls and the outer limits of the new nation. Yet aside from a brief war with Paraguay in the 19th century and an expeditionary force that joined the Allies during World War Two, Brazil`s military has seen little real combat. These days, the armed forces are mainly engaged in the odd public security mission, infrastructure projects and helping during natural disasters. Arnauld said that during the 1960s, the dictatorship reframed ideas of the Amazon, arguing that developing the region was key to protecting national security. That ideology was best summed up by government slogans from the time: "integrate so as not to forfeit" and "give a land without men to men without land". The military`s presence in the region remains formidable. "Here we have an economy that very much revolves around our soldiers," said Herivaneo Seixas, the mayor of Humaita, a town in Amazonas state which is also home to the immaculate 54th Jungle Infantry Battalion. Tassio Franchi, an Amazon expert at the Brazilian Army Command and General Staff School, said the military`s fears were justified in a dangerous, lawless region, surrounded by the world`s top three cocaine-producing nations. "It`s necessary to guarantee presence, the possession and control of the territory," he said.

Why is Bolsonaro wary of foreign Amazon aid: Brazil's military

Brazil`s foreign minister and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/europe-has-nothing-to-teach-brazil-about-preserving-environment-says-bolsonaro-as-amazon-fires-soar-246740">President Jair Bolsonaro</a>`s son met with US President Donald Trump on Friday to discuss the fires ravaging the Amazon rainforest, although no concrete measures to deal with the blazes were announced.

Speaking to reporters following the meeting, Eduardo Bolsonaro said there could be an announcement later, potentially after his return to Brasilia on Saturday and consultations with his father.&nbsp;

Bolsonaro has said he will appoint Eduardo as Brazil`s ambassador to the United States, but the controversial nomination has yet to be sent to the Senate for voting and confirmation.

The far-right Brazilian president sees the vast Amazon area as ripe for economic development and crucial to Brazilian sovereignty. He has been critical of what he has called interference, mostly from European countries, preferring to enter into potential talks for help fighting the fires with those he sees as allies, such as Trump and Chilean President Sebastian Pinera.

The talks with Trump largely focused on topics beyond the fires` scope, including trade, according to Brazilian Foreign Minister Ernesto Araujo.

"(Trump) reiterated various things: a willingness to work with us to sustainably develop the Amazon, a huge interest in a broad trade agreement with us," Araujo said.

The United States, Chile, Israel and Ecuador have already offered support in fighting the worst rash of fires in the Amazon rainforest since 2010, the country`s joint military chief told reporters in Brazil earlier.

The number of fires receded after Brazil`s military joined the firefighting efforts last week, although the latest statistics from Brazilian space research agency INPE showed a new spike. On Thursday, 1,255 fires were registered in the Amazon, the highest number for a single day since Aug. 17, according to INPE data.

'Our dear Macron'

President Bolsonaro tweeted on Friday that he had also spoken with German Chancellor Angela Merkel about the fires, a conversation which he said reaffirmed Brazil`s sovereignty over the rainforest.

He said that according to the European External Action Service, the EU diplomatic wing, satellite images show that fires in Brazil were lower year-to-date compared to the same period in 2018. Reuters was not immediately able to verify that.

Such data would directly contradict figures from INPE that show fires from Jan. 1 to Aug. 29 were up 77% compared to the same period a year ago.

"I am ready to talk with some people, except our dear Macron, unless he apologizes about our sovereignty over the Amazon," Bolsonaro said earlier in the day, referring to French President Emmanuel Macron.

Earlier this week Bolsonaro said he would not accept an offer of at least $20 million from the Group of Seven rich nations to help fight the Amazon fires unless Macron withdrew what he called "insults" against him.

The two leaders have become embroiled in a public war of words over Brazil`s handling of the Amazon fires and the international response. 
Eduardo Bolsonaro told reporters outside the White House that Brazil could not accept an offer like Macron`s.

"This isn`t aid that comes with good intentions. It`s aid that comes with other interests," he said. "This would disrespect Brazilians. It would subjugate our Brazilian-ness."&nbsp;

Brazil is also facing economic pressure over its perceived slow response to the surge in fires and deforestation. On Friday, the asset management arm of Nordea , one of the Nordic region`s biggest banks, said it was suspending purchases of Brazilian government bonds.

Norwegian pension fund KLP, which has $80 billion in assets under management, said this week it had contacted US companies Bunge , Cargill and Archer Daniels Midland asking for "concrete action" to protect the rainforest.&nbsp;

In statements to Reuters on Friday, Bunge and ADM reaffirmed their commitments to keep deforestation out of their supply chains. Cargill did not immediately respond to request for comment.

On Thursday, VF Corp , maker of Timberland, Vans and other apparel brands, said it would stop buying leather from Brazil over environmental concerns.

Brazil`s foreign minister and President Jair Bolsonaro`s son met with US President Donald Trump on Friday to discuss the fires ravaging the Amazon rainforest, although no concrete measures to deal with the blazes were announced.

Brazil`s foreign minister and President Jair Bolsonaro`s son met with US President Donald Trump on Friday to discuss the fires ravaging the Amazon rainforest, although no concrete measures to deal with the blazes were announced. Speaking to reporters following the meeting, Eduardo Bolsonaro said there could be an announcement later, potentially after his return to Brasilia on Saturday and consultations with his father. Bolsonaro has said he will appoint Eduardo as Brazil`s ambassador to the United States, but the controversial nomination has yet to be sent to the Senate for voting and confirmation. The far-right Brazilian president sees the vast Amazon area as ripe for economic development and crucial to Brazilian sovereignty. He has been critical of what he has called interference, mostly from European countries, preferring to enter into potential talks for help fighting the fires with those he sees as allies, such as Trump and Chilean President Sebastian Pinera. The talks with Trump largely focused on topics beyond the fires` scope, including trade, according to Brazilian Foreign Minister Ernesto Araujo. "(Trump) reiterated various things: a willingness to work with us to sustainably develop the Amazon, a huge interest in a broad trade agreement with us," Araujo said. The United States, Chile, Israel and Ecuador have already offered support in fighting the worst rash of fires in the Amazon rainforest since 2010, the country`s joint military chief told reporters in Brazil earlier. The number of fires receded after Brazil`s military joined the firefighting efforts last week, although the latest statistics from Brazilian space research agency INPE showed a new spike. On Thursday, 1,255 fires were registered in the Amazon, the highest number for a single day since Aug. 17, according to INPE data. 'Our dear Macron' President Bolsonaro tweeted on Friday that he had also spoken with German Chancellor Angela Merkel about the fires, a conversation which he said reaffirmed Brazil`s sovereignty over the rainforest. He said that according to the European External Action Service, the EU diplomatic wing, satellite images show that fires in Brazil were lower year-to-date compared to the same period in 2018. Reuters was not immediately able to verify that. Such data would directly contradict figures from INPE that show fires from Jan. 1 to Aug. 29 were up 77% compared to the same period a year ago. "I am ready to talk with some people, except our dear Macron, unless he apologizes about our sovereignty over the Amazon," Bolsonaro said earlier in the day, referring to French President Emmanuel Macron. Earlier this week Bolsonaro said he would not accept an offer of at least $20 million from the Group of Seven rich nations to help fight the Amazon fires unless Macron withdrew what he called "insults" against him. The two leaders have become embroiled in a public war of words over Brazil`s handling of the Amazon fires and the international response. Eduardo Bolsonaro told reporters outside the White House that Brazil could not accept an offer like Macron`s. "This isn`t aid that comes with good intentions. It`s aid that comes with other interests," he said. "This would disrespect Brazilians. It would subjugate our Brazilian-ness." Brazil is also facing economic pressure over its perceived slow response to the surge in fires and deforestation. On Friday, the asset management arm of Nordea , one of the Nordic region`s biggest banks, said it was suspending purchases of Brazilian government bonds. Norwegian pension fund KLP, which has $80 billion in assets under management, said this week it had contacted US companies Bunge , Cargill and Archer Daniels Midland asking for "concrete action" to protect the rainforest. In statements to Reuters on Friday, Bunge and ADM reaffirmed their commitments to keep deforestation out of their supply chains. Cargill did not immediately respond to request for comment. On Thursday, VF Corp , maker of Timberland, Vans and other apparel brands, said it would stop buying leather from Brazil over environmental concerns.

Brazil officials, Bolsonaro's son meet with Trump to discuss Amazon fires

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