Lula on Independence Day: "Brazil will not be anyone's colony"

In a statement released on the occasion of Independence Day, which is celebrated today in Brazil, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva said that the South American country is not, nor will it become, "anyone's colony".

In the message, broadcast on national radio and television, the head of state defended national sovereignty and indirectly criticized the high duties imposed by the United States on Brazilian products.

"We must remain strong and proud, without bowing our heads, to prevent Brazil from being transformed once again into a colony of other foreign powers. We are not, and will not be, anyone's colony," Lula said.