Annan reviews key developments with President Cardoso of Brazil

United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan today reviewed key issues of concern with President Fernando Henrique Cardoso of Brazil at a meeting in New York.

"We talked about developments in the region, developments around the world, UN-Brazilian relations," Mr. Annan told the press. "I was able to congratulate the President for the contribution he has made to his country and to the people, and his role in Latin America."

Asked whether the outgoing President accepted Mr. Annan's "invitation to be your special adviser," the Secretary-General said, "we talked about all sorts of things," adding, "he is such a wise and able leader that I'm sure it's not just me, but many institutions and leaders around the world are going to want to call on his help and for his advice."