President Temer asks new ministers not to mind criticism

Brazilian President Michel Temer met with his new team on Thursday (Apr. 12) and listed the activities conducted under his administration. After stipulating that the new cabinet members are to continue the work done by the ministries, Temer described the measures being implemented for the economy, mentioning the reduction in the inflation and the interest rate, as well as the improvement in the stock exchange.

“When we came here, the peak [of the stock exchange] had been at 42 points, and then reached 87 thousand points—all in less than two years of government. This means that we can still accomplish much in the coming nine months.” He reiterated that the achievements were made amid political difficulties facing the government.

During his 40-minute speech, Temer also mentioned figures from other fields. A total of 3,503 municipalities, he said, have expressed their interest in joining the Internet for All program, and added that 96% of the municipalities are now ready to receive the antennas providing them with internet access.

Towards the end of his address, Temer said that the new team should not be bothered by criticism, and that, despite protests, the government is to retain its work equation. “While people protest, the government’s caravan will keep working.”

The president also talked about the labor reform. “[The new] labor laws have brought us to the 21st century. This facilitates hiring and the definitive recovery of employment,” Temer argued. Over 70 thousand people were reported to have been hired in January, he went on to note.

In attendance were 28 ministers, plus the heads of Banco do Brasil, Caixa Econômica, and the National Social Development Bank (BNDES). Foreign Minister Aloysio Nunes was unable to attend, as he is on an official trip to Lima, Peru.

Translated by Fabrício Ferreira