Government
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The Federative Republic of Brazil is a democratic State by rights, with a Presidential system of government. The President of the Republic performs two functions: those of Head of State and Head of the Federal Government. In accordance with the 1988 National Constitution, the Federal Government acts decisively in the life of the Brazilian people, be it by establishing rules, implementing programmes or rendering services to the population.
The current president is Luiz Inácio "Lula" da Silva, from the Partido dos Trabalhadores (Workers' Party), elected in 2002 for the 2003–2006 term, re-elected for the 2007–2010 term. He was the most voted president in the world until then, receiving 56.7 million votes. In the 2006 presidential elections held on October 1, 2006, he received 58.2 million votes.
External Relations
Brazil is a key player on the world stage. It is at the forefront of efforts to deepen Latin American integration, through its membership of Mercosul, the Rio Group, ALADI and other regional groupings. It was a driving force behind the founding of the South American Community of Nations in December 2004. Brazil founded, and plays a co-ordinating role in the G20 group of nations in WTO negotiations. It is an active and influential member of the United Nations Brazil leads the UN peacekeeping force in Haiti (MINUSTAH) and participates in the multinational presence in Timor Leste.
Brazil is the UK's most important trading partner in Latin America, with a market share of around 2% and bilateral trade worth over £2.2bn in 2005 (UK exports of £760m and imports of £1,5bn). Around 90% of UK exports to Brazil are manufactured goods.