Strong economy boosts Brazil's Olympic bid
The Brazilian government has said the country's recent economic boom makes it a prime candidate to host the 2016 Olympic Games.
Sports minister Orlando Silva is currently meeting with the International Olympic Committee to discuss the possibility of Rio de Janeiro hosting the event in 8 years time.
Speaking to the Associated Press, he said Brazil's recent record of hosting major tournaments such as 2007's Pan American Games makes it a suitable location.
In addition, he stated that the strong performance of the Brazilian economy over the last few years could also strengthen its bid.
Mr Silva commented: "The PanAm games were a great success and gave Rio credibility."
He added that the facilities which were created for the even last year were "Olympic standard" and "highly praised".
Brazil is already looking forward to hosting the football World Cup in 2014, which will be staged in several cities across the country.
Former Brazilian international Antonio Lopes recently told Reuters that this will be very good for the Brazilian economy.
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