Posts tagged with "government"

New Brazilian Public Health Campaign

Posted by Rachel No Comments
Aug 25 2009

The Brazilian government is known for being one of the best in Latin America in terms of public health informational campaigns, as well as a providing important health care goods free of charge, including contraceptives and HIV medication.

Last week, the Ministry of Public Health unveiled a new campaign called “Muito prazer: sexo sem DST.” In an effort to expand awareness of STDs and to encourage people to get tested for them, the AIDS section of the Ministry came up with a new project: STD e-cards.

The e-cards, which can be sent from the government website, can be sent anonymously or with a real name. The card reads: “Hi! I don’t know if this is the best way to tell you, but I found out I have an STD. I went to a clinic, found a doctor, and I’m receiving treatment. I think you should do the same.”

Officials from the Ministry hope the campaign will help put a spotlight on these diseases (especially HIV) and help people to seek treatment for them, to help prevent the disease from spreading.

U.S. to Invest $2 Billion in Brazilian Oil

Posted by Rachel 4 Comments
Aug 20 2009

This week, the Wall Street Journal revealed that the U.S. government plans to invest US$2 billion in Petrobras, Brazil’s state-run oil company. It is the largest company headquartered in the Southern Hemisphere and the largest company in Latin America in terms of revenue. Its assets, which include oil assets in Brazil and 18 other countries, amounts to $133.5 billion.

The investment, which is in fact a loan, is to help Petrobras explore the Tupi basin off the coast of Rio de Janeiro, which could potentially make Brazil one of the world’s biggest oil powers. The investment will go towards offshore drilling activities to take place over the next several years.

According to the article, a preliminary commitment of $2 billion is on the table, though that amount may increase. However, some experts are scratching their heads about the idea of a loan from the ailing U.S. Treasury to cash-rich Petrobras.

Also this week, the New York Times reported that the Brazilian government is seeking more control over Petrobras in an effort to prevent foreign influence and to ensure national control over the Tupi oil field. However, the reform plan, which is being promoted by President Lula, faces strong opposition in Congress.

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