By Duncan Mackay
British Sports Internet Writer of the Year

August 30 - Britain's Secretary of State for Business Vince Cable (pictured) is to lead a delegation this week of more than 25 leading UK companies to Brazil, in the first Ministerial visit between the countries since the UK elections in May, and the Rio 2016 Olympics and Paralympics will be a major topic of discussion.



With Brazil tipped to become the world's fourth largest economy by 2050, this visit is the second to enact the Coalition Government's pledge to build relationships with key partners for the 21st century.

It follows the Prime Minister David Cameron's successful delegation last month to India, where the upcoming Commonwealth Games in New Delhi featured prominently.

Cable, who is due to leave tomorrow, will engage with business leaders and Government representatives over four days in Sao Paulo, Brasilia and Rio de Janeiro.

With his Brazilian counterpart, Miguel Jorge, he will work to build closer ties between the countries, co-chairing the annual Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO) together.

Cable will also explore the potential for partnership across a range of key areas, from developing the world-leading expertise that can deliver a successful Olympic Games in London 2012 and Rio 2016.

Cable said: "The UK Government has made it a priority to enhance our relationships with our key partners.

"I have therefore made it an early priority to meet face to face with colleagues in Brazil, which is the emerging power of the Americas."

Brazil are also due to host the 2014 FIFA World Cup.

Britain's previous Prime Minister, Gordon Brown, and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva signed a cooperation deal last November for London 2012 and Rio 2016 to share their experience and expertise in preparing for the Olympics and Paralympics.
 
During his trip Lula also met business leaders in London to urge them to invest in Brazil, saying it was a country with "enormous challenges" but huge opportunity.

Among the companies who will be joining Cable on the trip are GlaxoSmithkline, a Tier Three London 2012 partner.

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