The Brazilian Government welcomes the inauguration of the power-sharing Government in Stormont on this date, 8 May, which represents a milestone in the process of bringing the Catholic and Protestants leaderships of Northern Ireland closer together. The understanding that was reached between the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) and Sinn Féin led to the nomination of Ian Paisley and Martin McGuiness for the posts of First Minister and Deputy First Minister of the Province of Northern Ireland strengthens the prospect of lasting peace in the region.

President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has sent messages congratulating the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Tony Blair, and the Prime Minister of Ireland, Bertie Ahern, for the commitment of both Heads of Government during the long process of negotiation that culminated in this historic moment, which is both an example and a source of inspiration for other regions in conflict in the world.

Source: Ministry of External Relations