China will make a billion-dollar investment in the Brazilian port of Sao Luis via China Communications Construction Company, two sources with direct knowledge of the matter said on Wednesday.

Speaking on condition of anonymity, the sources said the announcement will be made at the summit of leaders of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, the so-called BRICS group of emerging nations, who are meeting in the Brazilian capital for a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/brics-summit-2019-pm-modi-meets-russian-president-putin-261934">two-day summit</a>.

The deal will be part of the largest foreign direct investment into Brazil this year, one of the sources said, without revealing any figures.

Economy Minister Paulo Guedes said on Wednesday that Brazil is seeking closer integration with China, its largest trading partner, involving not only trade but also investments.

"We had a giant trade agenda, but not so much investment flows. (Now) investment flows are increasing too," one of the sources said.

A third source said the deal will be a "greenfield" operation, with the Chinese investment aimed at expanding the port and operations. It will not involve the purchase of a local company, but may involve equity stakes changing hands, the source said, also on condition of anonymity.

The cornerstone of the port of Sao Luis was laid in March last year. At the time, China's state-run news agency Xinhua reported that CCCC led the project with a 51 per cent&nbsp;equity stake in the venture, alongside Brazil's WPR, construction group WTorre, and investment firm Lyon Capital.

Located in the northern state of Maranhao, the port of Sao Luis serves the central, northern and northeastern areas of Brazil, and is connected by the Norte-Sul/Carajas railway. According to one source, CCCC's investment will include spending on the railway.

China will make a billion-dollar investment in the Brazilian port of Sao Luis via China Communications Construction Company, two sources with direct knowledge of the matter said on Wednesday.

China will make a billion-dollar investment in the Brazilian port of Sao Luis via China Communications Construction Company, two sources with direct knowledge of the matter said on Wednesday. Speaking on condition of anonymity, the sources said the announcement will be made at the summit of leaders of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, the so-called BRICS group of emerging nations, who are meeting in the Brazilian capital for a two-day summit. The deal will be part of the largest foreign direct investment into Brazil this year, one of the sources said, without revealing any figures. Economy Minister Paulo Guedes said on Wednesday that Brazil is seeking closer integration with China, its largest trading partner, involving not only trade but also investments. "We had a giant trade agenda, but not so much investment flows. (Now) investment flows are increasing too," one of the sources said. A third source said the deal will be a "greenfield" operation, with the Chinese investment aimed at expanding the port and operations. It will not involve the purchase of a local company, but may involve equity stakes changing hands, the source said, also on condition of anonymity. The cornerstone of the port of Sao Luis was laid in March last year. At the time, China's state-run news agency Xinhua reported that CCCC led the project with a 51 per cent equity stake in the venture, alongside Brazil's WPR, construction group WTorre, and investment firm Lyon Capital. Located in the northern state of Maranhao, the port of Sao Luis serves the central, northern and northeastern areas of Brazil, and is connected by the Norte-Sul/Carajas railway. According to one source, CCCC's investment will include spending on the railway.

China to announce billion-dollar investment in Brazilian port of Sao Luis - Sources

Backers of Venezuela's opposition leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maduro-has-abandoned-the-negotiation-talks-venezuelas-juan-guaido-250055">Juan Guaido</a> left the country's embassy in Brasilia on Wednesday, after a tense 11-hour standoff that created a diplomatic embarrassment for Brazil's right-wing government.

Brazil's foreign ministry said a diplomat it sent to mediate a peaceful end to the dispute managed to convince the group of 10 people to leave the mission.

Representatives of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro later regained access to the building, creating a tricky situation for Brazil's President Jair Bolsonaro, who has recognised Guaido as the legitimate leader of Venezuela.

The incident caused scuffles outside the embassy in an embarrassment for Brazil's government as it hosts the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/brics-summit-2019-pm-modi-meets-russian-president-putin-261934">BRICS summit</a> of major emerging economies in the capital on Wednesday and Thursday. Leaders Xi Jinping of China and Vladimir Putin of Russia, who support Maduro, attended the event.

Venezuelan Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza said on Twitter the "violent" occupation had ended peacefully, thanks to the intervention of the Brazilian authorities.

Members of the Guaido group said embassy staff had allowed them to enter the embassy in the morning and that they did so peacefully.

Guaido's envoy in Brazil, Maria Teresa Belandria, has not been able to access the embassy since she arrived 10 months ago and has been living and working out of a Brasilia hotel.

Crowds of Brazilians who gathered outside the embassy to support the rival claims of Maduro and Guaido traded insults and some came to blows before police could separate them.

"The Brazilian government ordered us to leave our country's embassy and we were escorted out by the back door like delinquents," Venezuelan Army Mayor Jose Gregorio, who deserted to Brazil this year, said by telephone after leaving the embassy.

Venezuelan embassies around the world have become flash points for the competing claims of Guaido, the head of country's National Assembly, and Maduro, a socialist who took over from late President Hugo Chavez in 2013.

Earlier this year, Guaido invoked constitutional provisions to assume an interim presidency, arguing that Maduro's re-election last year was fraudulent. He has since been recognised by most Western nations as the rightful leader of Venezuela.

An occupation by protesters at the Venezuelan embassy in Washington in May resulted in arrests before the building was returned to Guaido's representatives, who are recognised by the United States.

Backers of Venezuela's opposition leader Juan Guaido left the country's embassy in Brasilia on Wednesday, after a tense 11-hour standoff that created a diplomatic embarrassment for Brazil's right-wing government.

Backers of Venezuela's opposition leader Juan Guaido left the country's embassy in Brasilia on Wednesday, after a tense 11-hour standoff that created a diplomatic embarrassment for Brazil's right-wing government. Brazil's foreign ministry said a diplomat it sent to mediate a peaceful end to the dispute managed to convince the group of 10 people to leave the mission. Representatives of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro later regained access to the building, creating a tricky situation for Brazil's President Jair Bolsonaro, who has recognised Guaido as the legitimate leader of Venezuela. The incident caused scuffles outside the embassy in an embarrassment for Brazil's government as it hosts the BRICS summit of major emerging economies in the capital on Wednesday and Thursday. Leaders Xi Jinping of China and Vladimir Putin of Russia, who support Maduro, attended the event. Venezuelan Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza said on Twitter the "violent" occupation had ended peacefully, thanks to the intervention of the Brazilian authorities. Members of the Guaido group said embassy staff had allowed them to enter the embassy in the morning and that they did so peacefully. Guaido's envoy in Brazil, Maria Teresa Belandria, has not been able to access the embassy since she arrived 10 months ago and has been living and working out of a Brasilia hotel. Crowds of Brazilians who gathered outside the embassy to support the rival claims of Maduro and Guaido traded insults and some came to blows before police could separate them. "The Brazilian government ordered us to leave our country's embassy and we were escorted out by the back door like delinquents," Venezuelan Army Mayor Jose Gregorio, who deserted to Brazil this year, said by telephone after leaving the embassy. Venezuelan embassies around the world have become flash points for the competing claims of Guaido, the head of country's National Assembly, and Maduro, a socialist who took over from late President Hugo Chavez in 2013. Earlier this year, Guaido invoked constitutional provisions to assume an interim presidency, arguing that Maduro's re-election last year was fraudulent. He has since been recognised by most Western nations as the rightful leader of Venezuela. An occupation by protesters at the Venezuelan embassy in Washington in May resulted in arrests before the building was returned to Guaido's representatives, who are recognised by the United States.

Venezuelan opposition group ends occupation of embassy in Brazil

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said that India is the world's most open and investment-friendly economy due to political stability, predictable policy and business-friendly reforms.

In his speech, PM Modi termed India as a land of limitless opportunities and urged the business leaders of the BRICS nations to invest in India, particularly in its infrastructure development.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also said that BRICS nations contribute to half of global economic development.&nbsp;

"BRICS nations contribute 50% to the economic development of the world. Despite global recession BRICS nations have contributed to economic development and brought crores of people out of poverty," said PM Modi at BRICS business forum.

Addressing the Dialogue with BRICS Business Council and New Development Bank, Prime Minister Modi urged the BRICS Business Council to create a roadmap to achieve the $ 500 billion intra-BRICS trade target by the next summit.

He also urged the BRICS business leaders to identify the priority areas in business for the next ten years and make a blueprint of it.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said that India is the world's most open and investment-friendly economy due to political stability, predictable policy and business-friendly reforms.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said that India is the world's most open and investment-friendly economy due to political stability, predictable policy and business-friendly reforms. In his speech, PM Modi termed India as a land of limitless opportunities and urged the business leaders of the BRICS nations to invest in India, particularly in its infrastructure development. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also said that BRICS nations contribute to half of global economic development. "BRICS nations contribute 50% to the economic development of the world. Despite global recession BRICS nations have contributed to economic development and brought crores of people out of poverty," said PM Modi at BRICS business forum. Addressing the Dialogue with BRICS Business Council and New Development Bank, Prime Minister Modi urged the BRICS Business Council to create a roadmap to achieve the $ 500 billion intra-BRICS trade target by the next summit. He also urged the BRICS business leaders to identify the priority areas in business for the next ten years and make a blueprint of it.

India is world's most open and investment-friendly economy: PM Modi at BRICS

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said that BRICS nations contribute to half of global economic development.&nbsp;

"BRICS nations contribute 50% to the economic development of the world. Despite global recession BRICS nations have contributed to economic development and brought crores of people out of poverty," said PM Modi at BRICS business forum.

Addressing the Dialogue with BRICS Business Council and New Development Bank, Prime Minister Modi urged the BRICS Business Council to create a roadmap to achieve the USD 500 billion intra-BRICS trade target by the next summit.

Calling India a land of limitless opportunities, the prime minister urged the business leaders of the BRICS nations to invest in India, particularly in its infrastructure development.

"India is the world's most open and investment-friendly economy due to political stability, predictable policy and business-friendly reforms," Modi said.

“Tax and Customs procedures between us five countries are getting easier. The business environment is getting easier with the collaboration between Intellectual Property Rights, and Banks. I request the BRICS Business Forum to study the necessary business initiatives to take full advantage of the opportunities thus generated,” Modi said while speaking at the BRICS Business Forum here.

“Intra-BRICS business and investment targets should be ambitious. Your suggestions will be helpful to further reduce the cost of trade between us,” he told the forum.

He also urged the BRICS business leaders to identify the priority areas in business for the next ten years and make a blueprint of it.

According to the BRICS joint statement, the five countries look forward to the opening of the two remaining NDB Regional Offices in Russia and India in 2020.

(With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said that BRICS nations contribute to half of global economic development. "BRICS nations contribute 50% to the economic development of the world.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said that BRICS nations contribute to half of global economic development. "BRICS nations contribute 50% to the economic development of the world. Despite global recession BRICS nations have contributed to economic development and brought crores of people out of poverty," said PM Modi at BRICS business forum. Addressing the Dialogue with BRICS Business Council and New Development Bank, Prime Minister Modi urged the BRICS Business Council to create a roadmap to achieve the USD 500 billion intra-BRICS trade target by the next summit. Calling India a land of limitless opportunities, the prime minister urged the business leaders of the BRICS nations to invest in India, particularly in its infrastructure development. "India is the world's most open and investment-friendly economy due to political stability, predictable policy and business-friendly reforms," Modi said. “Tax and Customs procedures between us five countries are getting easier. The business environment is getting easier with the collaboration between Intellectual Property Rights, and Banks. I request the BRICS Business Forum to study the necessary business initiatives to take full advantage of the opportunities thus generated,” Modi said while speaking at the BRICS Business Forum here. “Intra-BRICS business and investment targets should be ambitious. Your suggestions will be helpful to further reduce the cost of trade between us,” he told the forum. He also urged the BRICS business leaders to identify the priority areas in business for the next ten years and make a blueprint of it. According to the BRICS joint statement, the five countries look forward to the opening of the two remaining NDB Regional Offices in Russia and India in 2020. (With inputs from agencies)

BRICS nations contribute to half of global economic development: PM Modi

BRICS Summit 2019: PM Modi meets Russian President Putin. Watch video to know more.

BRICS Summit 2019: PM Modi meets Russian President Putin

Leaders of the BRICS group of emerging economies on Wednesday criticised what they view as politically motivated protectionism at a time of a global slowdown and said their countries are doing their best to counter the trend.

At their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/brics-summit-2019-pm-modi-meets-russian-president-putin-261934">annual summit</a>, the leaders of China, Russia, India, Brazil and South Africa called for greater inter-BRICS trade and investment and urged the group's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brics-nations-to-study-adding-countries-to-development-bank-261746">New Development Bank</a> to pump more funding into infrastructure and sustainable growth.

"Protectionist and bullying counter-currents bring shocks to international trade, adding to downward pressure on the world economy," Chinese President Xi Jinping, whose country is locked in a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-china-trade-deal-close-but-dashes-hopes-for-signing-details-261767">trade war with the United States</a>, told the summit in Brazil.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said global growth rates have been declining without interruption since the beginning of 2018 and will reach the lowest point in 10 years, citing International Monetary Fund forecasts.

"The BRICS countries are making considerable contributions to support growth," Putin said.

"The global economy has been influenced by the wide usage of unfair competition in trade, unilateral sanctions, including those that are politically motivated, and protectionism is flourishing," Putin said.

India's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-narendra-modi-arrives-in-brazil-for-brics-summit-261796">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> said his country aims to be a $5 trillion economy by 2024, up from 2.6 trillion in 2018. He said that BRICS targets for investment and trade must be more ambitious and welcomed suggestions to further reduce trade costs.

Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro said Brazil is recovering international confidence but needs more economic reforms to create a more attractive business atmosphere for investors.

A meeting between <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-to-announce-billion-dollar-investment-in-brazilian-port-of-sao-luis-sources-261959">Bolsonaro and Xi</a> earlier in the day showcased how far relations have come since last year. Bolsonaro repeatedly bashed China in the lead up to last October's elections in Brazil, creating concerns that he could disrupt BRICS, one of the world's biggest trading partnerships.

China's growing presence had made it a target for Bolsonaro's nationalist rhetoric, including a repeated complaint: "The Chinese are not buying in Brazil. They are buying Brazil."

Since he took office, diplomats and business leaders in both countries have persuaded Bolsonaro to tone down his anti-China rhetoric.

"We want to more than expand, we want to diversify our trade relationship," Bolsonaro said at the event with Xi.

While diplomatic ceremonies highlighted common ground, not far across town a dispute over the Venezuelan embassy dredged up differences on one of Latin America's most pressing issues.

China and Russia back Venezuela's leftist President Nicolas Maduro, but Bolsonaro sees opposition leader Juan Guaido as the country's legitimate leader.

Supporters of Maduro and Guaido came to blows on Wednesday after representatives for Guaido entered the embassy in Brasilia in what Venezuela's foreign minister called a forceful invasion. The Brazilian government persuaded them to leave after 11 hours.

Leaders of the BRICS group of emerging economies on Wednesday criticised what they view as politically motivated protectionism at a time of a global slowdown and said their countries are doing their best to counter the trend.

Leaders of the BRICS group of emerging economies on Wednesday criticised what they view as politically motivated protectionism at a time of a global slowdown and said their countries are doing their best to counter the trend. At their annual summit, the leaders of China, Russia, India, Brazil and South Africa called for greater inter-BRICS trade and investment and urged the group's New Development Bank to pump more funding into infrastructure and sustainable growth. "Protectionist and bullying counter-currents bring shocks to international trade, adding to downward pressure on the world economy," Chinese President Xi Jinping, whose country is locked in a trade war with the United States, told the summit in Brazil. Russian President Vladimir Putin said global growth rates have been declining without interruption since the beginning of 2018 and will reach the lowest point in 10 years, citing International Monetary Fund forecasts. "The BRICS countries are making considerable contributions to support growth," Putin said. "The global economy has been influenced by the wide usage of unfair competition in trade, unilateral sanctions, including those that are politically motivated, and protectionism is flourishing," Putin said. India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi said his country aims to be a $5 trillion economy by 2024, up from 2.6 trillion in 2018. He said that BRICS targets for investment and trade must be more ambitious and welcomed suggestions to further reduce trade costs. Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro said Brazil is recovering international confidence but needs more economic reforms to create a more attractive business atmosphere for investors. A meeting between Bolsonaro and Xi earlier in the day showcased how far relations have come since last year. Bolsonaro repeatedly bashed China in the lead up to last October's elections in Brazil, creating concerns that he could disrupt BRICS, one of the world's biggest trading partnerships. China's growing presence had made it a target for Bolsonaro's nationalist rhetoric, including a repeated complaint: "The Chinese are not buying in Brazil. They are buying Brazil." Since he took office, diplomats and business leaders in both countries have persuaded Bolsonaro to tone down his anti-China rhetoric. "We want to more than expand, we want to diversify our trade relationship," Bolsonaro said at the event with Xi. While diplomatic ceremonies highlighted common ground, not far across town a dispute over the Venezuelan embassy dredged up differences on one of Latin America's most pressing issues. China and Russia back Venezuela's leftist President Nicolas Maduro, but Bolsonaro sees opposition leader Juan Guaido as the country's legitimate leader. Supporters of Maduro and Guaido came to blows on Wednesday after representatives for Guaido entered the embassy in Brasilia in what Venezuela's foreign minister called a forceful invasion. The Brazilian government persuaded them to leave after 11 hours.

BRICS leaders rail against 'bullying' protectionism

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday held bilateral meeting&nbsp;with Russian President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Brazil.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Brasilia on Wednesday on a two-day official visit to attend the annual session of BRICS, a grouping of five major world economies, namely Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.

The 11th BRICS summit will focus on strengthening ties among the five countries in key areas such as digital economy, science, and technology, as well as in building mechanisms for counter-terrorism cooperation. The theme of this year's summit is 'Economic Growth for an Innovative Future'.

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Brasilia, Brazil: Prime Minister Narendra Modi holds bilateral meeting with President of Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin, on the sidelines of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BRICS2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BRICS2019</a> Summit. <a href="https://t.co/Y9DL5F4wUp">pic.twitter.com/Y9DL5F4wUp</a>
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Taking to Twitter upon his arrival, Modi expressed hope that the summit will enhance cultural and economic linkages between member nations.

"Reached Brazil to take part in the BRICS Summit. Will also meet various world leaders during this visit. I am sure the BRICS Summit will enhance cultural and economic linkages between BRICS nations," Modi tweeted.

The Prime Minister is scheduled to hold several bilaterals with leaders of the member nations, including Chinese President Xi Jinping, Brazil President Jair Bolsonaro.

This year the joint working group on counter-terrorism has decided to constitute five sub-working groups on counterterrorism in the following areas: terrorist financing, use of the Internet for terrorist purposes, countering radicalisation, issue of foreign terrorist fighters and capacity-building, the Ministry of External Affairs said.

This is Prime Minister's second visit to Brazil and his first visit after the new administration led by president Bolsonaro assumed office on January 1, 2019, the ministry said.

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday held bilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Brazil. Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Brasilia on Wednesday on a two-day official visit to attend the annual session of BRICS, a grouping of five major world economies, namely Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday held bilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Brazil. Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Brasilia on Wednesday on a two-day official visit to attend the annual session of BRICS, a grouping of five major world economies, namely Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. The 11th BRICS summit will focus on strengthening ties among the five countries in key areas such as digital economy, science, and technology, as well as in building mechanisms for counter-terrorism cooperation. The theme of this year's summit is 'Economic Growth for an Innovative Future'. Brasilia, Brazil: Prime Minister Narendra Modi holds bilateral meeting with President of Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin, on the sidelines of #BRICS2019 Summit. pic.twitter.com/Y9DL5F4wUp — ANI (@ANI) November 13, 2019 × Taking to Twitter upon his arrival, Modi expressed hope that the summit will enhance cultural and economic linkages between member nations. "Reached Brazil to take part in the BRICS Summit. Will also meet various world leaders during this visit. I am sure the BRICS Summit will enhance cultural and economic linkages between BRICS nations," Modi tweeted. The Prime Minister is scheduled to hold several bilaterals with leaders of the member nations, including Chinese President Xi Jinping, Brazil President Jair Bolsonaro. This year the joint working group on counter-terrorism has decided to constitute five sub-working groups on counterterrorism in the following areas: terrorist financing, use of the Internet for terrorist purposes, countering radicalisation, issue of foreign terrorist fighters and capacity-building, the Ministry of External Affairs said. This is Prime Minister's second visit to Brazil and his first visit after the new administration led by president Bolsonaro assumed office on January 1, 2019, the ministry said. (With inputs from ANI)

PM Modi, Russian President Putin hold talks on sidelines of BRICS Summit

Leaders of the BRICS group of leading emerging economy nations meeting this week will discuss opening their development bank to other countries to increase its capital to fund infrastructure and other projects, diplomats and the bank's head said.

The New Development Bank (NDB) launched in 2014 by China, India, Russia, Brazil and South Africa has a subscribed capital of $50 billion, of which $10 billion is paid capital.

Diplomats for Brazil and one other BRICS nation said expansion of the bank is on the agenda at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modi-to-visit-brazil-for-brics-summit-261491">annual summit</a> November&nbsp;13-14.

NDB President K.V. Kamath said the bank's membership is open to all members of the United Nations and its mandate is to mobilize funds for sustainable development projects in BRICS and other emerging economies and developing countries.

"The membership will be expanded gradually," he told Reuters in an interview by email but declined to name any countries.

Kamath rebuffed criticism that the bank has taken a long time to deliver loans to help boost economies amid slowing global growth.

"The NDB has gone a long way in four years, something that took some of our peer institutions decades to achieve," he said referring to other multilateral lending institutions.

As of Monday, the bank's total project approvals stood at $12.5 billion for 45 projects. In 2019 alone it approved 14 loans worth $4.4 billion, he said.

By the end of 2019, the bank projects total approvals to reach $14 billion to $15 billion, almost double the portfolio of the China-led Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank.

Among recent loans, the bank last month approved $500 million for Brazil's national Climate Fund project, known as Fundo Clima in Portuguese, which is aimed at helping the country meet its Nationally Determined Contribution, a target reducing carbon emissions under the Paris climate accord.

Leaders of the BRICS group of leading emerging economy nations meeting this week will discuss opening their development bank to other countries to increase its capital to fund infrastructure and other projects, diplomats and the bank's head said.

Leaders of the BRICS group of leading emerging economy nations meeting this week will discuss opening their development bank to other countries to increase its capital to fund infrastructure and other projects, diplomats and the bank's head said. The New Development Bank (NDB) launched in 2014 by China, India, Russia, Brazil and South Africa has a subscribed capital of $50 billion, of which $10 billion is paid capital. Diplomats for Brazil and one other BRICS nation said expansion of the bank is on the agenda at the annual summit November 13-14. NDB President K.V. Kamath said the bank's membership is open to all members of the United Nations and its mandate is to mobilize funds for sustainable development projects in BRICS and other emerging economies and developing countries. "The membership will be expanded gradually," he told Reuters in an interview by email but declined to name any countries. Kamath rebuffed criticism that the bank has taken a long time to deliver loans to help boost economies amid slowing global growth. "The NDB has gone a long way in four years, something that took some of our peer institutions decades to achieve," he said referring to other multilateral lending institutions. As of Monday, the bank's total project approvals stood at $12.5 billion for 45 projects. In 2019 alone it approved 14 loans worth $4.4 billion, he said. By the end of 2019, the bank projects total approvals to reach $14 billion to $15 billion, almost double the portfolio of the China-led Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank. Among recent loans, the bank last month approved $500 million for Brazil's national Climate Fund project, known as Fundo Clima in Portuguese, which is aimed at helping the country meet its Nationally Determined Contribution, a target reducing carbon emissions under the Paris climate accord.

BRICS nations to study adding more countries to development bank

The Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived on Wednesday in Brasilia for the BRICS summit.&nbsp;

After reaching Brazil, the Indian PM tweeted that the summit will boost "cultural and economic" linkages among member nations.

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Reached Brazil to take part in the BRICS Summit. Will also meet various world leaders during this visit. 
 
I am sure the BRICS Summit will enhance cultural and economic linkages between BRICS nations. <a href="https://t.co/NSIGlIO3AZ">pic.twitter.com/NSIGlIO3AZ</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1194541076981395456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The two-day visit of Indian prime minister for the 11th <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-leaves-for-brazil-to-attend-11th-brics-summit-will-meet-putin-and-xi-261583">BRICS summit </a>will focus on the issue of multilateralism and counter-terror.

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— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1194536738175086592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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PM Modi will meet Russian President Vladimir Putin, Brazilian President Jair Messias Bolsonaro and Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the summit.

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The visit to Brazil will give me an opportunity to hold talks with President <a href="https://twitter.com/jairbolsonaro?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@jairbolsonaro</a> on ways to deepen the India-Brazil strategic partnership. There is great potential in sectors like trade, defence, agriculture and energy. <a href="https://t.co/48pMuQVYuc">https://t.co/48pMuQVYuc</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1194168467685072896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The prime minister confirmed on Tuesday that he would be addressing the BRICS Business Forum and interacting with BRICS Business Council as well as the New Development Bank.&nbsp;He also added that improving economic linkages amongst the BRICS nations "augur well".

Modi also said that his visit gives him an opportunity to deepen India-Brazil strategic partnership.&nbsp;The member countries will also look to boost cooperation on digital economy and build mechanisms for counter-terrorism cooperation within the BRICS framework, PM Modi said.

PM Modi would also attend the closing ceremony of the BRICS business forum and the 'closed' and plenary sessions of the summit. In the closed session, the discussions are likely to be focused on challenges and opportunities for the exercise of national sovereignty in the contemporary world.

Later, BRICS Plenary Session, where the leaders will discuss the intra-BRICS cooperation for the economic development of BRICS societies will be held.

An MoU between trade and investment promotion agencies is also expected to be signed. The participating leaders would also be issued on the conclusion of the summit, according to the Ministry of External Affairs.&nbsp;

BRICS is an association of world's five major world economies - Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa - which comprise 42 per cent of the world population, contribute to 23 per cent of global Gross Domestic Product and around 17 per cent of the share in world trade.&nbsp;

Modi is participating in the&nbsp;BRICS summit for the sixth time, the first being at Fortaleza, also in Brazil in 2014.

(with inputs from agencies)

 
&nbsp;

The Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived on Wednesday in Brasilia for the BRICS summit. After reaching Brazil, the Indian PM tweeted that the summit will boost "cultural and economic" linkages among member nations.

The Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived on Wednesday in Brasilia for the BRICS summit. After reaching Brazil, the Indian PM tweeted that the summit will boost "cultural and economic" linkages among member nations. Reached Brazil to take part in the BRICS Summit. Will also meet various world leaders during this visit. I am sure the BRICS Summit will enhance cultural and economic linkages between BRICS nations. pic.twitter.com/NSIGlIO3AZ — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 13, 2019 × The two-day visit of Indian prime minister for the 11th BRICS summit will focus on the issue of multilateralism and counter-terror. Brazil: Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives in Brasilia for the 11th BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) Summit pic.twitter.com/kskPn3CwxU — ANI (@ANI) November 13, 2019 × PM Modi will meet Russian President Vladimir Putin, Brazilian President Jair Messias Bolsonaro and Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the summit. The visit to Brazil will give me an opportunity to hold talks with President @jairbolsonaro on ways to deepen the India-Brazil strategic partnership. There is great potential in sectors like trade, defence, agriculture and energy. https://t.co/48pMuQVYuc — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 12, 2019 × The prime minister confirmed on Tuesday that he would be addressing the BRICS Business Forum and interacting with BRICS Business Council as well as the New Development Bank. He also added that improving economic linkages amongst the BRICS nations "augur well". Modi also said that his visit gives him an opportunity to deepen India-Brazil strategic partnership. The member countries will also look to boost cooperation on digital economy and build mechanisms for counter-terrorism cooperation within the BRICS framework, PM Modi said. PM Modi would also attend the closing ceremony of the BRICS business forum and the 'closed' and plenary sessions of the summit. In the closed session, the discussions are likely to be focused on challenges and opportunities for the exercise of national sovereignty in the contemporary world. Later, BRICS Plenary Session, where the leaders will discuss the intra-BRICS cooperation for the economic development of BRICS societies will be held. An MoU between trade and investment promotion agencies is also expected to be signed. The participating leaders would also be issued on the conclusion of the summit, according to the Ministry of External Affairs. BRICS is an association of world's five major world economies - Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa - which comprise 42 per cent of the world population, contribute to 23 per cent of global Gross Domestic Product and around 17 per cent of the share in world trade. Modi is participating in the BRICS summit for the sixth time, the first being at Fortaleza, also in Brazil in 2014. (with inputs from agencies)

PM Narendra Modi arrives in Brazil for BRICS summit

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

On the sidelines of the 11th BRICS summit, PM Modi will also meet Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro to discuss ways to enhance the bilateral strategic partnership.

PM Modi In Brazil For BRICS Summit

Andre Aranha Correa Do Lago exclusively speaks to WION. Watch video to know more

Andre Aranha Correa Do Lago exclusively speaks to WION

PM Modi’s visit on November 13 and 14 will deliberate on boosting overall cooperation among the member nations of BRICS – Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa.

PM Modi to visit Brazil for BRICS summit

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff will miss Sunday's Brazilian Grand Prix, making it the first race he has not attended since 2013, now that his team have won both <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-one-aims-for-zero-carbon-footprint-by-2030-261543">Formula One</a> championships for an unprecedented sixth year in a row.

A Mercedes spokesman said technical director James Allison will be the most senior team member at the track in the Austrian's absence.

"With both championships secured, it gives me more time in Europe to focus on other open topics," Wolff said in a team preview of the season's penultimate race at Sao Paulo's Interlagos track.

"It's great to be able to do this and to know that the team will represent the three-pointed star in the best way possible both on and off the track."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lewis-hamilton-painting-masterpiece-with-sixth-drivers-title-259841">Lewis Hamilton </a>won his sixth world championship when he finished second to team mate Valtteri Bottas in Austin, Texas, on November&nbsp;3 after the team sealed the constructors' championship in Japan on October&nbsp;13.

Mercedes have dominated the V6 turbo-hybrid era that started in 2014 and have won 14 of this season's 19 races so far,&nbsp;Hamilton 10 of them.

The Briton has 83 career wins and is closing in on Michael Schumacher's all-time record of 91. The 34-year-old won in Brazil last year, while Mercedes wrapped up the constructors' championship there.

With both titles secure, and the top three positions in the constructors' standings locked in, Mercedes, Ferrari and Red Bull will also be using the last two races to test ideas for next season.

"Despite this record-breaking achievement, I still feel a lot of hunger and desire for more achievements," said Wolff.

"There's no sense of complacency, everybody is still determined to keep on improving... we have two races to go in the 2019 season and we want to end this season on a high."

The last race is in Abu Dhabi on December&nbsp;1

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff will miss Sunday's Brazilian Grand Prix, making it the first race he has not attended since 2013, now that his team have won both Formula One championships for an unprecedented sixth year in a row.

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff will miss Sunday's Brazilian Grand Prix, making it the first race he has not attended since 2013, now that his team have won both Formula One championships for an unprecedented sixth year in a row. A Mercedes spokesman said technical director James Allison will be the most senior team member at the track in the Austrian's absence. "With both championships secured, it gives me more time in Europe to focus on other open topics," Wolff said in a team preview of the season's penultimate race at Sao Paulo's Interlagos track. "It's great to be able to do this and to know that the team will represent the three-pointed star in the best way possible both on and off the track." Lewis Hamilton won his sixth world championship when he finished second to team mate Valtteri Bottas in Austin, Texas, on November 3 after the team sealed the constructors' championship in Japan on October 13. Mercedes have dominated the V6 turbo-hybrid era that started in 2014 and have won 14 of this season's 19 races so far, Hamilton 10 of them. The Briton has 83 career wins and is closing in on Michael Schumacher's all-time record of 91. The 34-year-old won in Brazil last year, while Mercedes wrapped up the constructors' championship there. With both titles secure, and the top three positions in the constructors' standings locked in, Mercedes, Ferrari and Red Bull will also be using the last two races to test ideas for next season. "Despite this record-breaking achievement, I still feel a lot of hunger and desire for more achievements," said Wolff. "There's no sense of complacency, everybody is still determined to keep on improving... we have two races to go in the 2019 season and we want to end this season on a high." The last race is in Abu Dhabi on December 1

Motor racing: Mercedes boss Wolff to skip Brazil now both F1 titles won

Shakhtar Donetsk's Brazilian midfielder Taison was sent off in a Ukrainian league match against visitors Dynamo Kyiv on Sunday for reacting to racist insults from the crowd.

A video of the incident showed that Taison stuck his finger up at a section occupied by Dynamo fans and then hoofed the ball into the stands.

Taison, 31, who has featured six times for Brazil and has played in Ukraine since 2011, reacted with disbelief and left the field in tears.

The campaign group FARE (Football Against Racism in Europe) said on Twitter that Taison's teammate and fellow Brazilian Dentinho reported the insults to the referee and a stadium announcement was made.

Following UEFA-recommended protocol, the referee then took the players to the dressing-room for five minutes, FARE said, before dismissing Taison and restarting the game which Shakhtar won 1-0.

The third step of the protocol would have been to abandon the match.

"The third step not activated, victim of racism sent off," said FARE, which added that Dynamo fans also mocked a club campaign by displaying posters which said, "Like to racism."

In 2015, Dynamo Kyiv were ordered by UEFA to play two European matches behind closed doors after four black spectators were attacked at their stadium during a match against Chelsea.

Shakhtar Donetsk's Brazilian midfielder Taison was sent off in a Ukrainian league match against visitors Dynamo Kyiv on Sunday for reacting to racist insults from the crowd.

Shakhtar Donetsk's Brazilian midfielder Taison was sent off in a Ukrainian league match against visitors Dynamo Kyiv on Sunday for reacting to racist insults from the crowd. A video of the incident showed that Taison stuck his finger up at a section occupied by Dynamo fans and then hoofed the ball into the stands. Taison, 31, who has featured six times for Brazil and has played in Ukraine since 2011, reacted with disbelief and left the field in tears. The campaign group FARE (Football Against Racism in Europe) said on Twitter that Taison's teammate and fellow Brazilian Dentinho reported the insults to the referee and a stadium announcement was made. Following UEFA-recommended protocol, the referee then took the players to the dressing-room for five minutes, FARE said, before dismissing Taison and restarting the game which Shakhtar won 1-0. The third step of the protocol would have been to abandon the match. "The third step not activated, victim of racism sent off," said FARE, which added that Dynamo fans also mocked a club campaign by displaying posters which said, "Like to racism." In 2015, Dynamo Kyiv were ordered by UEFA to play two European matches behind closed doors after four black spectators were attacked at their stadium during a match against Chelsea.

Football: Brazilian player sent off in Ukraine for reacting to racist insults

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

Brazil's leftist icon Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva walked free from jail Friday after a year and a half behind bars for corruption following a court ruling that could release thousands of convicts.&nbsp;

The former president, wearing a black T-shirt and suit jacket, pumped his fist as he exited the federal police headquarters in the southern city of Curitiba and was quickly mobbed by hundreds of supporters and journalists.

In an impassioned address in a sometimes hoarse voice, Lula vowed to keep fighting for poor people and denounced the economic policies of the current right-wing president, Jair Bolsonaro.

"People are hungrier, they have no jobs, people work for Uber or delivering pizzas on a bike," Lula said in remarks sometimes drowned out by cheers from the crowd and fireworks overhead.

Lula's highly anticipated exit from the facility where he had been held since April 2018 came hours after his lawyers requested the immediate release of the 74-year-old, who has been serving a nearly nine-year sentence for corruption and money laundering.

Late Thursday, the Supreme Court overturned a rule requiring convicted criminals to go to jail after losing their first appeal. Lula is one of several thousand convicts who could benefit from the decision.

Those convicts would remain free until they had exhausted their rights to appeal -- a process critics say could take years in cases involving people able to afford expensive lawyers.

Many of those affected by the 6-5 ruling are political and business leaders caught up in a massive corruption probe dubbed Car Wash that began in 2014.

The Supreme Court ruling had given Lula &nbsp;"hope that there could be justice," his lawyer Cristiano Zanin said.

"Our judicial battle continues, our focus is to get the legal case nullified."

A hero to millions

Lula, who led Brazil through a historic boom from 2003 to 2010, earning him the gratitude of millions of Brazilians for redistributing wealth to haul them out of poverty, was serving eight years and 10 months for corruption.

He was sentenced to almost 13 years in jail in February in a separate corruption case and still faces another half dozen corruption trials.

Lula has denied all the charges, arguing they were politically motivated to keep him out of the 2018 presidential election that was won by Bolsonaro.

"I'm coming for you, wait for me!" Rosangela da Silva, Lula's girlfriend, tweeted after the Supreme Court announced its decision.

"If all the others did worse and are free, why not him too?" Eleonora Cintra, a 74-year-old resident of Sao Paulo, told AFP.

Bolsonaro has been unusually quiet about the court's ruling that freed his nemesis. But his sons have taken to Twitter to attack the decision.

"Thousands of prisoners will be released and rattle everyone, regardless of their political beliefs, generating serious internal and external social and economic reactions," Carlos Bolsonaro tweeted.

Justice Minister Sergio Moro, who convicted Lula when he was a judge in 2017, said the Supreme Court's decision must be respected, but he noted "Congress can modify the Constitution or the law" to allow the jailing of convicted criminals after their first appeal. &nbsp;

Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro led many leftist leaders in Latin American in cheering Lula's release, saying "the Venezuelan people are happy and welcome Lula's freedom."

And in the US, liberal presidential hopeful Bernie Sanders said that in Brazil no one had done more than Lula to reduce poverty and defend workers.

"I am delighted that he has been released from jail, something that never should have happened in the first place," Sanders tweeted.

Even though he has been freed, Lula's criminal record will prevent him from resuming his political career. He was the founder of the Workers Party (PT).&nbsp;

That could change, however, if the Supreme Court were to decide in a separate case that Moro had been biased.

Lula's release could invigorate the left and, paradoxically, also help Bolsonaro, who was swept to power in 2018 on a wave of anti-PT sentiment, said Thomaz Favaro of Control Risks consultancy.

"You will have Lula more present on the political scene and that allows Bolsonaro to reinforce his role as leader of the anti-PT field," Favaro said.

Lula will spend his first day of freedom visiting the metalworkers' union he once led near Sao Paulo, Brazil's biggest city.

Brazil's leftist icon Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva walked free from jail Friday after a year and a half behind bars for corruption following a court ruling that could release thousands of convicts.

Brazil's leftist icon Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva walked free from jail Friday after a year and a half behind bars for corruption following a court ruling that could release thousands of convicts. The former president, wearing a black T-shirt and suit jacket, pumped his fist as he exited the federal police headquarters in the southern city of Curitiba and was quickly mobbed by hundreds of supporters and journalists. In an impassioned address in a sometimes hoarse voice, Lula vowed to keep fighting for poor people and denounced the economic policies of the current right-wing president, Jair Bolsonaro. "People are hungrier, they have no jobs, people work for Uber or delivering pizzas on a bike," Lula said in remarks sometimes drowned out by cheers from the crowd and fireworks overhead. Lula's highly anticipated exit from the facility where he had been held since April 2018 came hours after his lawyers requested the immediate release of the 74-year-old, who has been serving a nearly nine-year sentence for corruption and money laundering. Late Thursday, the Supreme Court overturned a rule requiring convicted criminals to go to jail after losing their first appeal. Lula is one of several thousand convicts who could benefit from the decision. Those convicts would remain free until they had exhausted their rights to appeal -- a process critics say could take years in cases involving people able to afford expensive lawyers. Many of those affected by the 6-5 ruling are political and business leaders caught up in a massive corruption probe dubbed Car Wash that began in 2014. The Supreme Court ruling had given Lula "hope that there could be justice," his lawyer Cristiano Zanin said. "Our judicial battle continues, our focus is to get the legal case nullified." A hero to millions Lula, who led Brazil through a historic boom from 2003 to 2010, earning him the gratitude of millions of Brazilians for redistributing wealth to haul them out of poverty, was serving eight years and 10 months for corruption. He was sentenced to almost 13 years in jail in February in a separate corruption case and still faces another half dozen corruption trials. Lula has denied all the charges, arguing they were politically motivated to keep him out of the 2018 presidential election that was won by Bolsonaro. "I'm coming for you, wait for me!" Rosangela da Silva, Lula's girlfriend, tweeted after the Supreme Court announced its decision. "If all the others did worse and are free, why not him too?" Eleonora Cintra, a 74-year-old resident of Sao Paulo, told AFP. Bolsonaro has been unusually quiet about the court's ruling that freed his nemesis. But his sons have taken to Twitter to attack the decision. "Thousands of prisoners will be released and rattle everyone, regardless of their political beliefs, generating serious internal and external social and economic reactions," Carlos Bolsonaro tweeted. Justice Minister Sergio Moro, who convicted Lula when he was a judge in 2017, said the Supreme Court's decision must be respected, but he noted "Congress can modify the Constitution or the law" to allow the jailing of convicted criminals after their first appeal. Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro led many leftist leaders in Latin American in cheering Lula's release, saying "the Venezuelan people are happy and welcome Lula's freedom." And in the US, liberal presidential hopeful Bernie Sanders said that in Brazil no one had done more than Lula to reduce poverty and defend workers. "I am delighted that he has been released from jail, something that never should have happened in the first place," Sanders tweeted. Even though he has been freed, Lula's criminal record will prevent him from resuming his political career. He was the founder of the Workers Party (PT). That could change, however, if the Supreme Court were to decide in a separate case that Moro had been biased. Lula's release could invigorate the left and, paradoxically, also help Bolsonaro, who was swept to power in 2018 on a wave of anti-PT sentiment, said Thomaz Favaro of Control Risks consultancy. "You will have Lula more present on the political scene and that allows Bolsonaro to reinforce his role as leader of the anti-PT field," Favaro said. Lula will spend his first day of freedom visiting the metalworkers' union he once led near Sao Paulo, Brazil's biggest city.

Brazil's leftist icon Lula walks free from jail

Brazil's Supreme Court decided November 7 to end the mandatory imprisonment of convicted criminals after they lose their first appeal, restoring the previous rule that they should be allowed to exhaust all their appeal options before being locked up.

Brazil Changes Jail term Rules: Ruling could free Ex-Prez Lula Da Silva

Brazil's Supreme Court decided on Thursday (November 7) to end the mandatory imprisonment of convicted criminals after they lose their first appeal, restoring the previous rule that they should be allowed to exhaust all their appeal options before being locked up.

Brazil's Supreme court ends early prison rule, decision could be a refief for Lula

Brazil is all set to host this year's BRICS summit which will see Indian PM Modi participating. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Brazilian envoy to India Andre Aranha Correa Do Lago said one of the key objectives of the summit will be innovation and how these five countries - India, Brazil, China, Russia and South Africa can work together and set an example for the world.&nbsp;

Excerpts:

WION: What will be the main agenda of the BRICS summit?

Andre Aranha Correa Do Lago: We are very happy to host the summit, this is the 11th BRICS summit and what really Brazil thinks is very important, its economic growth, innovation and technology for the future, which is an important objective. There are different things happening in the world, but we have to focus on this, how much these countries can get together and this can improve things and economic growth, science, technology and innovation.

WION: How much global growth can be part of the talks, since BRICS is a grouping based on economic issues?

Andre Aranha Correa Do Lago: As you know, we have very different circumstances, India has been growing very strongly, as well as China but Russia, Brazil, South Africa have been growing through more difficult times with much less significant percentage of growth.

What we know, we are all living in a world full of uncertainties and since these economies got together in the group, &nbsp;because of our economic significance, we have to show we have lines that we follow and that their things to show what can be done between us and that can be example for rest of the world.

WION: Are you planning to call other Latin American countries?

Andre Aranha Correa Do Lago: In this BRICS summit, the Brazilian government decided not to call anybody else, just five leaders and somehow we want to concentrate on the leadership of the five countries.

It will also be a celebration because one doesn't notice but during the process of presidency of BRICS we had several meetings. This year we organising over 90 government meetings, 17 at the level of ministers and also 15 people-to-people meet which is a great achievement. BRICS institutions coming together.

The summit is not something to be looked at in isolation, it is in fact, the symbolic end of engagements.

WION: How are current India-Brazil ties faring?

Andre Aranha Correa Do Lago: The relationship is getting stronger, and you have to think of one element, which is forgotten, the most important new groups formed recently to try to solve some of the difficulties we have in multilateral, basically BRICS formed to deal with economics and trade regarding the IMF, WTO but we have also we have the group G4 to deal the UN issues.&nbsp;

In G4, we have India with Brazil, and then IBSA that concentrates on south-south cooperation and has big democracies in three different continents and it is being preceded by India this year. SO whatever geometry we choose to try to overcome the difficulties of traditional structure, India and Brazil are always together.&nbsp;

WION: Any high-level visits in the offing from Brazil to India?

Andre Aranha Correa Do Lago: I hope so. As you know reports of things that can happen, the fact this is a very good moment for the relationship and there is a very good understanding between our leaders in the Osaka G20 meet and it has continued.

We all know how important it is to have a special relationship between the leaders and will be good to have more high-level visits.

WION: What is your take on UN reforms?

Andre Aranha Correa Do Lago: Well, I hope yes. As a Brazilian diplomat I have believe in the United Nations and both India and Brazil want to work with the UN, we don't want to reduce the strength of the UN.

But the world has changed since 1945 and no doubt reforms are needed. It is a complex process and we have to remember, their can't be reforms without considering India and Brazil, this is the main message and the reform should reduce us.

Brazil is all set to host this year's BRICS summit which will see Indian PM Modi participating. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Brazilian envoy to India Andre Aranha Correa Do Lago said one of the key objectives of the summit will be innovation and how these five countries - India, Brazil, China, Russia and South Africa can work together and set an example for the world.

Brazil is all set to host this year's BRICS summit which will see Indian PM Modi participating. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Brazilian envoy to India Andre Aranha Correa Do Lago said one of the key objectives of the summit will be innovation and how these five countries - India, Brazil, China, Russia and South Africa can work together and set an example for the world. Excerpts: WION: What will be the main agenda of the BRICS summit? Andre Aranha Correa Do Lago: We are very happy to host the summit, this is the 11th BRICS summit and what really Brazil thinks is very important, its economic growth, innovation and technology for the future, which is an important objective. There are different things happening in the world, but we have to focus on this, how much these countries can get together and this can improve things and economic growth, science, technology and innovation. WION: How much global growth can be part of the talks, since BRICS is a grouping based on economic issues? Andre Aranha Correa Do Lago: As you know, we have very different circumstances, India has been growing very strongly, as well as China but Russia, Brazil, South Africa have been growing through more difficult times with much less significant percentage of growth. What we know, we are all living in a world full of uncertainties and since these economies got together in the group, because of our economic significance, we have to show we have lines that we follow and that their things to show what can be done between us and that can be example for rest of the world. WION: Are you planning to call other Latin American countries? Andre Aranha Correa Do Lago: In this BRICS summit, the Brazilian government decided not to call anybody else, just five leaders and somehow we want to concentrate on the leadership of the five countries. It will also be a celebration because one doesn't notice but during the process of presidency of BRICS we had several meetings. This year we organising over 90 government meetings, 17 at the level of ministers and also 15 people-to-people meet which is a great achievement. BRICS institutions coming together. The summit is not something to be looked at in isolation, it is in fact, the symbolic end of engagements. WION: How are current India-Brazil ties faring? Andre Aranha Correa Do Lago: The relationship is getting stronger, and you have to think of one element, which is forgotten, the most important new groups formed recently to try to solve some of the difficulties we have in multilateral, basically BRICS formed to deal with economics and trade regarding the IMF, WTO but we have also we have the group G4 to deal the UN issues. In G4, we have India with Brazil, and then IBSA that concentrates on south-south cooperation and has big democracies in three different continents and it is being preceded by India this year. SO whatever geometry we choose to try to overcome the difficulties of traditional structure, India and Brazil are always together. WION: Any high-level visits in the offing from Brazil to India? Andre Aranha Correa Do Lago: I hope so. As you know reports of things that can happen, the fact this is a very good moment for the relationship and there is a very good understanding between our leaders in the Osaka G20 meet and it has continued. We all know how important it is to have a special relationship between the leaders and will be good to have more high-level visits. WION: What is your take on UN reforms? Andre Aranha Correa Do Lago: Well, I hope yes. As a Brazilian diplomat I have believe in the United Nations and both India and Brazil want to work with the UN, we don't want to reduce the strength of the UN. But the world has changed since 1945 and no doubt reforms are needed. It is a complex process and we have to remember, their can't be reforms without considering India and Brazil, this is the main message and the reform should reduce us.

BRICS can set example for the rest of the world: Brazilian envoy

Brazil’s Bolsonaro says ‘worst is yet to come’ on oil spill. Watch video to know more.

Brazil’s Bolsonaro says ‘worst is yet to come’ on oil spill

An oil spill that is stretching across Brazil's north east region has reached a rare coral reef in the country, underwater footage from November 01 shows.

2 months after oil spill in Brazil; richest biodiversity faces the brunt

Greek authorities said Saturday that a Greek ship was one of five vessels suspected in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-beaches-sullied-by-oily-sludge-257039">oil spills</a> that have been appearing along the coast of Brazil for two months.

The Brazilian defence ministry said Friday that a Greek-flagged tanker was the main suspect in the search for culprits after oil began appearing in early September and has been seen along a 2,000-kilometre&nbsp; stretch of the northeastern Atlantic coast.

A spokeswoman for the Greek coastguard, which answers to the merchant navy ministry, told AFP that "the investigation conducted in Brazil showed that five ships from different countries are suspects, including a Greek one".

She did not give the names of the vessels, which had now left Brazil to unknown destinations, or their owners, but said that "detailed controls will be carried out by the Greek authorities should those vessels arrive in a Greek port".

Investigators in Brazil studied 1,100 ships navigating through the area before narrowing down the potential culprits to 30, and then settling on the Greek-flagged ship as the "prime suspect".

The defence ministry said a search warrant for the unnamed ship had been issued while the attorney general's office said the damage to Brazil's coasts was "immeasurable."

Separately, police raided the Rio de Janeiro offices of a company linked to the owners of the ship, federal police said.

"This environmental catastrophe has reached estuaries, mangroves and river mouths all over northeastern Brazil, causing damage to fishing, aquaculture and tourism," the police said in a statement.

The defence ministry said the ship was transporting oil.

Greek authorities said Saturday that a Greek ship was one of five vessels suspected in oil spills that have been appearing along the coast of Brazil for two months.

Greek authorities said Saturday that a Greek ship was one of five vessels suspected in oil spills that have been appearing along the coast of Brazil for two months. The Brazilian defence ministry said Friday that a Greek-flagged tanker was the main suspect in the search for culprits after oil began appearing in early September and has been seen along a 2,000-kilometre stretch of the northeastern Atlantic coast. A spokeswoman for the Greek coastguard, which answers to the merchant navy ministry, told AFP that "the investigation conducted in Brazil showed that five ships from different countries are suspects, including a Greek one". She did not give the names of the vessels, which had now left Brazil to unknown destinations, or their owners, but said that "detailed controls will be carried out by the Greek authorities should those vessels arrive in a Greek port". Investigators in Brazil studied 1,100 ships navigating through the area before narrowing down the potential culprits to 30, and then settling on the Greek-flagged ship as the "prime suspect". The defence ministry said a search warrant for the unnamed ship had been issued while the attorney general's office said the damage to Brazil's coasts was "immeasurable." Separately, police raided the Rio de Janeiro offices of a company linked to the owners of the ship, federal police said. "This environmental catastrophe has reached estuaries, mangroves and river mouths all over northeastern Brazil, causing damage to fishing, aquaculture and tourism," the police said in a statement. The defence ministry said the ship was transporting oil.

Greece says five vessels suspected in Brazil oil spill

A shoot-out in the northern Brazilian city of Manaus between police and suspected drug traffickers left 17 people dead, local authorities announced Wednesday.

"The individuals exchanged fire with the police, 17 were hit by bullets and transported to a hospital, where they were confirmed dead," the state security secretariat said of the clash late Tuesday.

The aim of the police operation had been "to intercept a group of drug traffickers from a criminal faction that was preparing to murder rivals to take control of drug selling positions" in the city.

Police seized 17 weapons, including an Uzi submachine gun, as well as a huge amount of ammunition.

Military police commander Ayrton Norte told reporters that authorities were tipped off that 50 armed people were in a truck heading to attack a rival gang.

Various groups are fighting for control of the drug trafficking business in the north of Brazil, a strategic area for the transport of cocaine from neighbouring countries such as Colombia, Peru and Bolivia.

"We intervened to save lives, to apply the law and unfortunately they instigated a confrontation and were defeated," said Norte.

"Good always overcomes evil. Whomsoever dares to take on the police will face the appropriate response."

Local news website Portal do Holanda said a 14-year-old and 17-year-old were among those killed, although authorities have not confirmed that.

Gang rivalries frequently have flared into gruesome prison massacres in recent years.

At the end of July, 57 inmates were killed during a riot at a prison in Para state, which neighbours Amazonas, whose capital is Manaus.

In January 2017, more than 100 inmates were killed in a spate of prison clashes, the bloodiest of which was in Manaus.

Prison conditions in Brazil have been widely condemned due to chronic overcrowding, while riots and attempted breakouts are common.

A shoot-out in the northern Brazilian city of Manaus between police and suspected drug traffickers left 17 people dead, local authorities announced Wednesday. "The individuals exchanged fire with the police, 17 were hit by bullets and transported to a hospital, where they were confirmed dead," the state security secretariat said of the clash late Tuesday.

A shoot-out in the northern Brazilian city of Manaus between police and suspected drug traffickers left 17 people dead, local authorities announced Wednesday. "The individuals exchanged fire with the police, 17 were hit by bullets and transported to a hospital, where they were confirmed dead," the state security secretariat said of the clash late Tuesday. The aim of the police operation had been "to intercept a group of drug traffickers from a criminal faction that was preparing to murder rivals to take control of drug selling positions" in the city. Police seized 17 weapons, including an Uzi submachine gun, as well as a huge amount of ammunition. Military police commander Ayrton Norte told reporters that authorities were tipped off that 50 armed people were in a truck heading to attack a rival gang. Various groups are fighting for control of the drug trafficking business in the north of Brazil, a strategic area for the transport of cocaine from neighbouring countries such as Colombia, Peru and Bolivia. "We intervened to save lives, to apply the law and unfortunately they instigated a confrontation and were defeated," said Norte. "Good always overcomes evil. Whomsoever dares to take on the police will face the appropriate response." Local news website Portal do Holanda said a 14-year-old and 17-year-old were among those killed, although authorities have not confirmed that. Gang rivalries frequently have flared into gruesome prison massacres in recent years. At the end of July, 57 inmates were killed during a riot at a prison in Para state, which neighbours Amazonas, whose capital is Manaus. In January 2017, more than 100 inmates were killed in a spate of prison clashes, the bloodiest of which was in Manaus. Prison conditions in Brazil have been widely condemned due to chronic overcrowding, while riots and attempted breakouts are common.

Brazil says 17 killed in police action in Manaus

By

Akash Rai

Indians can now have easy access to Sao Paulo after&nbsp;Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro announced today that the South American nation will no longer require Indians to obtain a visa while visiting the country as a tourist or for business purposes.

The announcement was made by the Brazilian president while he was in China during an official visit. &nbsp;

WION&nbsp;spoke to the Brazilian embassy in New Delhi which said: "Brazil wants more businessmen and tourists from India. There are untapped opportunities for deepening people-to-people contact. We are implementing measures which could be the first step to facilitate bringing our people closer."

Earlier this year, the visa relaxation rule followed Brazil's move on similar lines to a number of nations including the USA, Canada, Japan and Australia. Brazilians, on the other hand, are still required to obtain visas for the said nations.

The new strategy outlined an openness towards tourists while eliminating visa requirements for countries with the biggest economic potential which also helps to promote Brazil's diverse culture and natural marvels.

India and Brazil share a close and multifaceted relationship at the bilateral level as well as in plurilateral fora such as BRICS, BASIC, G-20, IBSA, and several others.

According to government data, more than 4,700 Indians reside in Brazil with the majority of them living in Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Manaus. The community mainly comprises of professionals, businessmen, scientists and researchers connected with space, agriculture, physics, and biotechnology. There is also an India association in Sao Paulo.

Apart from this, India and Brazil also share an interest in commercial, defense and cultural relations including the ITEC program. About 55 Brazilians have visited India under the ITEC program for training in communication, defense and management in the past seven years.

By Akash Rai Indians can now have easy access to Sao Paulo after Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro announced today that the South American nation will no longer require Indians to obtain a visa while visiting the country as a tourist or for business purposes.

By Akash Rai Indians can now have easy access to Sao Paulo after Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro announced today that the South American nation will no longer require Indians to obtain a visa while visiting the country as a tourist or for business purposes. The announcement was made by the Brazilian president while he was in China during an official visit. WION spoke to the Brazilian embassy in New Delhi which said: "Brazil wants more businessmen and tourists from India. There are untapped opportunities for deepening people-to-people contact. We are implementing measures which could be the first step to facilitate bringing our people closer." Earlier this year, the visa relaxation rule followed Brazil's move on similar lines to a number of nations including the USA, Canada, Japan and Australia. Brazilians, on the other hand, are still required to obtain visas for the said nations. The new strategy outlined an openness towards tourists while eliminating visa requirements for countries with the biggest economic potential which also helps to promote Brazil's diverse culture and natural marvels. India and Brazil share a close and multifaceted relationship at the bilateral level as well as in plurilateral fora such as BRICS, BASIC, G-20, IBSA, and several others. According to government data, more than 4,700 Indians reside in Brazil with the majority of them living in Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Manaus. The community mainly comprises of professionals, businessmen, scientists and researchers connected with space, agriculture, physics, and biotechnology. There is also an India association in Sao Paulo. Apart from this, India and Brazil also share an interest in commercial, defense and cultural relations including the ITEC program. About 55 Brazilians have visited India under the ITEC program for training in communication, defense and management in the past seven years.

Indians no longer need visa to visit Brazil: President Bolsonaro

Mothers are truly irreplaceable, there is really nothing on the planet that can surpass a mother's love for her child. The same was exhibited in a video that recently went viral wherein a mother helped her child with cerebral palsy skateboard for the very first time.&nbsp;

Brazil's 7-year-old Joao suffers from cerebral palsy but her mother didn't let her child's suffering come in the way of realising what he has been yearning to do for long - skateboard.

In the video, the mother can be seen pushing the structure around a skateboarding site. The structure is attached to a skateboard with ample support for Joao to hold on to.&nbsp;

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He has Cerebral Palsy and wanted to skate board so his mom created this for him so that he could. 
 
MY HEART 😭❤ 
 
Mother Of The Year <a href="https://t.co/S97bk8jBAS">pic.twitter.com/S97bk8jBAS</a>
— StanceGrounded (@_SJPeace_) <a href="https://twitter.com/_SJPeace_/status/1186654340087533569?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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As Joao's mother went from mound to mound, pushing her son to get his first skateboarding experience, the internet swelled with joy and exhilaration.&nbsp;

One Twitter user even called her the 'mother of the year'.

Joao's mother could make her son's dream come true by getting a specially-designed board created by a project called Skate Anima. She went on to thank Skate Anima on her Instagram handle.&nbsp;

"My son is 7 years old. A boy full of wills, desires, dreams and one of them was, for a long time, skateboarding... You deserve the world," her heartwarming post read.

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"It turns out that he has cerebral palsy since suffering a stroke at 1 year and 8 months and for children who have cerebral palsy, or any other kind of disability, having desires and dreams is not allowed," she said in her post.&nbsp;

Cerebral palsy is a permanent movement disorder that impairs a person's motor skills. It strikes early in childhood. A person with cerebral palsy may exhibit poor coordination, weakened muscles with stiffness and tremors. Troubles with sensation, vision, hearing, swallowing and speaking may also surface.

Mothers are truly irreplaceable, there is really nothing on the planet that can surpass a mother's love for her child. The same was exhibited in a video that recently went viral wherein a mother helped her child with cerebral palsy skateboard for the very first time.

Mothers are truly irreplaceable, there is really nothing on the planet that can surpass a mother's love for her child. The same was exhibited in a video that recently went viral wherein a mother helped her child with cerebral palsy skateboard for the very first time. Brazil's 7-year-old Joao suffers from cerebral palsy but her mother didn't let her child's suffering come in the way of realising what he has been yearning to do for long - skateboard. In the video, the mother can be seen pushing the structure around a skateboarding site. The structure is attached to a skateboard with ample support for Joao to hold on to. He has Cerebral Palsy and wanted to skate board so his mom created this for him so that he could. MY HEART 😭❤ Mother Of The Year pic.twitter.com/S97bk8jBAS — StanceGrounded (@_SJPeace_) October 22, 2019 × As Joao's mother went from mound to mound, pushing her son to get his first skateboarding experience, the internet swelled with joy and exhilaration. One Twitter user even called her the 'mother of the year'. Joao's mother could make her son's dream come true by getting a specially-designed board created by a project called Skate Anima. She went on to thank Skate Anima on her Instagram handle. "My son is 7 years old. A boy full of wills, desires, dreams and one of them was, for a long time, skateboarding... You deserve the world," her heartwarming post read. View this post on Instagram A post shared by avante ⚡️ (@avanteleaozinho) on Sep 20, 2019 at 9:51am PDT × "It turns out that he has cerebral palsy since suffering a stroke at 1 year and 8 months and for children who have cerebral palsy, or any other kind of disability, having desires and dreams is not allowed," she said in her post. Cerebral palsy is a permanent movement disorder that impairs a person's motor skills. It strikes early in childhood. A person with cerebral palsy may exhibit poor coordination, weakened muscles with stiffness and tremors. Troubles with sensation, vision, hearing, swallowing and speaking may also surface.

Brazilian mum wins hearts by helping son with cerebral palsy skate for the very first time

Brazil Stocks hit record ahead of pension bill vote. Brazil going to save $196BN in next 10 years

Brazil Stocks hit record ahead of pension bill vote

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

Tens of thousands of Catholic faithful flocked to a football stadium in Brazil Sunday to celebrate the Vatican's canonization into sainthood of Sister Dulce Lopes Pontes, dubbed the "mother of the poor."&nbsp;

Sister Dulce, as she is affectionately known in the world's biggest mostly Catholic country, was one of five people elevated by the pope to the highest position within the church on October 13.

But for many devotees in hot and humid Salvador, where Sister Dulce was born in Brazil's northeast in 1914, the nun was a saint long before the Vatican recognized her two "miracles". &nbsp; &nbsp;

"Now, everyone sees her as a saint. But for all the work that she did, for us, she was always a saint," Creusa Costa, 59, told AFP, as she decorated a statue of Sister Dulce with flowers at the entrance of her sanctuary in a poor neighborhood of the capital of Bahia state.&nbsp;

Most new saints must have two "miracles" to their names, usually, scientifically inexplicable healings, attributed to prayers.

Sister Dulce, who died in 1992, is the first Brazilian-born female saint.

She is credited with stopping a woman from haemorrhaging after giving birth and returning the vision of a man who had been blind for years.&nbsp;

In the week since the Vatican ceremony, the number of people paying homage to Sister Dulce at her shrine in the coastal city has surged.&nbsp;

Believers from across the country take pictures of the white and blue habit worn by the nun when she was buried or talk to her in the room where her remains are kept beneath a ceramic replica of her body.&nbsp;

"She is in heaven, but she's looking after us even more than when she was here," said Maria Silva de Oliveira, who along with Creusa, was involved in decorating the Fonte Nova football stadium, one of the venues for the 2014 World Cup, for a special ceremony organized by the Salvador Archdiocese.&nbsp;

De Oliveira had planned to attend the Vatican sainthood event, but changed her mind after suffering indigestion, which she says "was a message from Sister Dulce."&nbsp;

Born into an upper-middle-class family in Salvador, Sister Dulce started a health clinic for poor workers and opened a school, a hospital, and an orphanage, as well as care centres for the elderly and disabled.

The nun, dubbed the "good angel of Bahia", was a member of the Missionary Sisters of the Immaculate Conception.

She was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 1988.

The year before her death she was visited in hospital by Pope John Paul II, who called her work "an example for humanity".

Since her rise to sainthood, Sister Dulce's face has been plastered all over Salvador, a popular tourist destination.

It appears on signs, T-shirts, hats, rosaries, cups and even the wrapping of sweet Christmas bread.&nbsp;

Multicoloured ribbons that usually pay homage to Senhor do Bomfim, or Lord of the Good End, a representation of Christ revered by Catholics as well as practitioners of the African-rooted Candomble religion, now also carries the name of "Saint Dulce of the Poor."

Tens of thousands of Catholic faithful flocked to a football stadium in Brazil Sunday to celebrate the Vatican's canonization into sainthood of Sister Dulce Lopes Pontes, dubbed the "mother of the poor.

Tens of thousands of Catholic faithful flocked to a football stadium in Brazil Sunday to celebrate the Vatican's canonization into sainthood of Sister Dulce Lopes Pontes, dubbed the "mother of the poor." Sister Dulce, as she is affectionately known in the world's biggest mostly Catholic country, was one of five people elevated by the pope to the highest position within the church on October 13. But for many devotees in hot and humid Salvador, where Sister Dulce was born in Brazil's northeast in 1914, the nun was a saint long before the Vatican recognized her two "miracles". "Now, everyone sees her as a saint. But for all the work that she did, for us, she was always a saint," Creusa Costa, 59, told AFP, as she decorated a statue of Sister Dulce with flowers at the entrance of her sanctuary in a poor neighborhood of the capital of Bahia state. Most new saints must have two "miracles" to their names, usually, scientifically inexplicable healings, attributed to prayers. Sister Dulce, who died in 1992, is the first Brazilian-born female saint. She is credited with stopping a woman from haemorrhaging after giving birth and returning the vision of a man who had been blind for years. In the week since the Vatican ceremony, the number of people paying homage to Sister Dulce at her shrine in the coastal city has surged. Believers from across the country take pictures of the white and blue habit worn by the nun when she was buried or talk to her in the room where her remains are kept beneath a ceramic replica of her body. "She is in heaven, but she's looking after us even more than when she was here," said Maria Silva de Oliveira, who along with Creusa, was involved in decorating the Fonte Nova football stadium, one of the venues for the 2014 World Cup, for a special ceremony organized by the Salvador Archdiocese. De Oliveira had planned to attend the Vatican sainthood event, but changed her mind after suffering indigestion, which she says "was a message from Sister Dulce." Born into an upper-middle-class family in Salvador, Sister Dulce started a health clinic for poor workers and opened a school, a hospital, and an orphanage, as well as care centres for the elderly and disabled. The nun, dubbed the "good angel of Bahia", was a member of the Missionary Sisters of the Immaculate Conception. She was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 1988. The year before her death she was visited in hospital by Pope John Paul II, who called her work "an example for humanity". Since her rise to sainthood, Sister Dulce's face has been plastered all over Salvador, a popular tourist destination. It appears on signs, T-shirts, hats, rosaries, cups and even the wrapping of sweet Christmas bread. Multicoloured ribbons that usually pay homage to Senhor do Bomfim, or Lord of the Good End, a representation of Christ revered by Catholics as well as practitioners of the African-rooted Candomble religion, now also carries the name of "Saint Dulce of the Poor."

Thousands of Catholic faithful in Brazil celebrate first female saint

The thick petroleum&nbsp;sludge&nbsp;that has been mysteriously washing up on&nbsp;beaches&nbsp;in&nbsp;Brazil&nbsp;for more than a month struck the popular tourist spot of Porto de Galinhas in Pernambuco state on October 19.

Normally known for its beautiful sand, palm trees and&nbsp;pristine&nbsp;tidal pools, the resort area was&nbsp;sullied&nbsp;by an&nbsp;oily&nbsp;sludge&nbsp;and locals scrambled to clean up the mess.

Reports of the oil spill emerged late last month.&nbsp;Brazil's environmental agency Ibama has reported that an analysis of a vast oil spill along the country's northeastern&nbsp;beaches&nbsp;showed the spilt crude did not originate in the country.

On October 09,&nbsp;Brazilian Environment Minister Ricardo Salles said the&nbsp;sludge&nbsp;was "very likely from Venezuela," citing a report by state-run oil firm Petroleo Brasileiro SA.

The thick petroleum sludge that has been mysteriously washing up on beaches in Brazil for more than a month struck the popular tourist spot of Porto de Galinhas in Pernambuco state on October 19.

The thick petroleum sludge that has been mysteriously washing up on beaches in Brazil for more than a month struck the popular tourist spot of Porto de Galinhas in Pernambuco state on October 19. Normally known for its beautiful sand, palm trees and pristine tidal pools, the resort area was sullied by an oily sludge and locals scrambled to clean up the mess. Reports of the oil spill emerged late last month. Brazil's environmental agency Ibama has reported that an analysis of a vast oil spill along the country's northeastern beaches showed the spilt crude did not originate in the country. On October 09, Brazilian Environment Minister Ricardo Salles said the sludge was "very likely from Venezuela," citing a report by state-run oil firm Petroleo Brasileiro SA.

Brazil beaches sullied by oily sludge

Brazil's&nbsp;Supreme&nbsp;Court&nbsp;began debating on Thursday whether to overturn a three-year-old rule that convicted criminals must go to prison right after losing their first appeal and not wait until they have exhausted their appeal options.

The rule contributed to the success of&nbsp;Brazil's biggest&nbsp;corruption&nbsp;investigation, the so-called <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazils-ex-president-michel-temer-arrested-reports-204712">Car Wash operation</a> that put dozens of company executives and politicians in jail for bribes and kickbacks,&nbsp;including&nbsp;former leftist <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ex-brazil-president-lula-convicted-on-graft-charges-sentenced-to-nearly-10-years-in-jail-17870">President Luiz Inacio&nbsp;Lula&nbsp;da Silva.</a>

The prospect of serving immediate prison time after losing a first appeal encouraged suspects to negotiate plea deals with prosecutors, providing them with information that helped unravel the biggest graft scheme in&nbsp;Brazil's history.

Lula&nbsp;and many others convicted of&nbsp;corruption&nbsp;in the Car Wash investigation&nbsp;could&nbsp;be released from prison if the top&nbsp;court&nbsp;reverses the rule, as expected when the justices vote on October 24.

Justice Marco Aurelio de Mello, the second-longest-serving justice on the 11-member&nbsp;court, told Reuters on Wednesday he would vote for a return to the original rule that all appeals must be exhausted before a convicted defendant goes to prison.

Mello rejected criticism that the debate was geared to benefit&nbsp;Lula, who went to jail in July 2018 for 8 years and 10 months for receiving bribes from engineering companies in return for government contracts.

Mello told reporters at the&nbsp;court&nbsp;on Thursday that he expects a 7-4 decision in favour of allowing defendants the right to a full appeals process before they are imprisoned.

Former judge Sergio Moro, who handled most of the Car Wash trials and is now justice minister in the government of right-wing President Jair Bolsonaro, said such a decision would be a big setback for&nbsp;Brazil's fight against&nbsp;corruption.

In Thursday's session, lawyers for political parties opposed to the rule and the&nbsp;Brazilian Bar Association argued that it violated the constitution, which establishes the presumption of innocence of a defendant throughout the appeals process.

"Whether we like it or not, whether we disagree with the Constitution or find it out of date, the fact is that this is what the Constitution says," said Jose Eduardo Cardozo, a former justice minister.

The top public prosecutor and the government's solicitor general, who have both defended the current rule, will have the closing arguments before the justices cast their votes.

According to the National Council of Justice, some 4,895&nbsp;convicts&nbsp;could&nbsp;potentially benefit from the rule change.

Brazil's Supreme Court began debating on Thursday whether to overturn a three-year-old rule that convicted criminals must go to prison right after losing their first appeal and not wait until they have exhausted their appeal options.

Brazil's Supreme Court began debating on Thursday whether to overturn a three-year-old rule that convicted criminals must go to prison right after losing their first appeal and not wait until they have exhausted their appeal options. The rule contributed to the success of Brazil's biggest corruption investigation, the so-called Car Wash operation that put dozens of company executives and politicians in jail for bribes and kickbacks, including former leftist President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. The prospect of serving immediate prison time after losing a first appeal encouraged suspects to negotiate plea deals with prosecutors, providing them with information that helped unravel the biggest graft scheme in Brazil's history. Lula and many others convicted of corruption in the Car Wash investigation could be released from prison if the top court reverses the rule, as expected when the justices vote on October 24. Justice Marco Aurelio de Mello, the second-longest-serving justice on the 11-member court, told Reuters on Wednesday he would vote for a return to the original rule that all appeals must be exhausted before a convicted defendant goes to prison. Mello rejected criticism that the debate was geared to benefit Lula, who went to jail in July 2018 for 8 years and 10 months for receiving bribes from engineering companies in return for government contracts. Mello told reporters at the court on Thursday that he expects a 7-4 decision in favour of allowing defendants the right to a full appeals process before they are imprisoned. Former judge Sergio Moro, who handled most of the Car Wash trials and is now justice minister in the government of right-wing President Jair Bolsonaro, said such a decision would be a big setback for Brazil's fight against corruption. In Thursday's session, lawyers for political parties opposed to the rule and the Brazilian Bar Association argued that it violated the constitution, which establishes the presumption of innocence of a defendant throughout the appeals process. "Whether we like it or not, whether we disagree with the Constitution or find it out of date, the fact is that this is what the Constitution says," said Jose Eduardo Cardozo, a former justice minister. The top public prosecutor and the government's solicitor general, who have both defended the current rule, will have the closing arguments before the justices cast their votes. According to the National Council of Justice, some 4,895 convicts could potentially benefit from the rule change.

Brazil Supreme Court ruling could free corruption convicts, including Lula da Silva

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