U.S. announces two new consulates in Brazil

The U.S. Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton, announced two new consulates in Brazil: in Porto Alegre and Belo Horizonte.

At a meeting on Monday with Brazilian and U.S. American Chamber of Commerce in Washington, the diplomat said that the U.S. is committed to facilitating the entry of Brazilians in the U.S..

Clinton, who will be in Brazil next week, said that relations with Brazil are priority for the Obama administration, which intends to increase both the flow of tourists and the business between the countries.

In late January, President Barack Obama announced measures to facilitate the granting of visas for Brazilians considered low risk. Nationals of other countries have also benefited. Among the actions is the possibility to exempt Brazilians interview at the consulate.

Obama also announced the intention to increase by 40% the ability to meet the consular authorities in Brazil and China.

In March it was announced that the U.S. government intends to create a fast line in American immigration to facilitate the entry of Brazilian frequent travelers in the country. The measure still depends according to the Brazilian government.