President Lula met Michelle Bachelet on Monday (11) and is discussing financial support for her UN secretary-general bid. Brazil and Mexico maintain backing after Chile withdrew endorsement.
Lula and Bachelet spoke for about 40 minutes at the Planalto Palace. The president said they discussed the role of a reformed UN in promoting peace and sustainable development.
The Brazilian government is evaluating legal options and funding sources to cover campaign expenses for the former Chilean president, such as airfare and lodging. So far, Brazil has spent no money on the candidacy.
Chile withdrew support after José Antonio Kast took office. Before the change, Santiago had allocated about US$ 28 thousand for the campaign. Bachelet is expected to return to UN headquarters in New York at the end of June for talks with permanent Security Council members.
