Under the accord, Brasilia would permit “inspectors” to see some parts of the centrifuges needed for its uranium enrichment processing, while keeping other parts hidden from view. Brazil had up to now refused IAEA entry into the plant to protect its technological innovations.

IAEA spokesperson Melissa Fleming said there had been “some progress” in getting Brasilia to come to terms, and that the agency would “discuss [inspection] practicalities on the ground” during a visit later this month.

During his visit to Brazil, Powell downplayed differences between the two governments. “I don’t think Brazil can be talked about in the same vein or put in the same category as Iran or North Korea,” he said, referring to two of the key targets for Washington—the world’s largest nuclear power—in its campaign for so-called nuclear non-proliferation. “The United States understands that Brazil has no interest in a nuclear weapon,” he said. “They have a nuclear program. We understand that.”

In November 2003 Brazil launched “Electricity for All,” a program aimed at providing power to 2 million rural households that lack access to electrical power. There are two nuclear power plants in Brazil now, and the government is considering building a third. Resende will supply centrifuges for the other nuclear facilities.  
 
 
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