President Lula flexes his muscles

He’s tried to solve the Iranian nuclear problem, and now Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva is launching an international TV channel aimed at Africa. The signal for Brazil TV will reach 49 nations, including the Portuguese-speaking countries of Angola, Mozambique and Equatorial Guinea, and will cater to local audiences as well as the three million Brazilians living overseas. “I want a channel that speaks well of the country, that can show Brazil as it really is,” said Lula at Monday’s launch.

It’s only the latest move by the South American powerhouse to bolster its international presence. Last week, Brazil and Turkey struck a deal with Iran to send 1.2 tonnes of enriched uranium from Tehran to Turkey in exchange for fuel rods to keep an Iranian medical research reactor operational. In addition to spreading its political influence, Brazil has made trade a top priority. And Lula has focused on Africa.

He visits the continent often, promoting Brazilian investment and exports. His next visit will be in July for the World Cup in South Africa. He’s promised to stay for the final game, even if his nation’s green-and-yellow-clad players aren’t on the field.