After Haddad, Alckmin will also return a Saudi gift

As well as the minister of Finance, Fernando Haddad, the vice president and minister of Development, Industry and Trade (MDIC), Geraldo Alckmin, was also presented by the government of Saudi Arabia. After meeting with the entourage from the Arab country, Alckmin won a dromedary sculpture. The piece, however, must also be returned along with the ounce of gold that was intended for Haddad.

The two ministers met with members of the Saudi government, this Monday (31st), in São Paulo. After the meeting, the Arab delegation presented the Brazilians with luxurious souvenirs. The price of the objects was not disclosed.

On the recommendation of the secretary of the Federal Revenue, Robinson Barreirinhas, however, the pieces are going to be returned to the Embassy of Saudi Arabia, in Brasília. Also according to a note sent by the folder, the offer of gifts to public authorities “must be made with prior notice to the ceremonial of the public body awarded”.

In addition to the bilateral meetings, the Brazilian vice president participated, together with members of the Saudi government, in an event held by the Federation of Industries of the State of São Paulo (Fiesp) and Invest Saudi, the country’s investment agency.

“Saudi businessmen have shown interest in investing in Brazil in several sectors, such as renewable energy, fertilizers, aerospace and mining. Brazilian companies have made important investments in Saudi Arabia in the food, banking and defense sectors,” said the MDIC in a note.