Tunis, 16 November 2005 - The aim of the memorandum of understanding is to improve training and education in the use of FOSS. This software can be a way of closing the "digital divide" in computer-based technology between developing and industrialized nations. But to benefit from FOSS developing countries need to have the knowledge to use these programmes effectively. The agreement between Brazil and UNCTAD will help build expertise in Portuguese-speaking nations with the help of FOSS training experts. It will also involve sharing relevant training materials and resources.

The agreement was signed at the World Summit on the Information Society in Tunis. The signing ceremony was followed by an advisory session on FOSS for Portuguese-speaking delegations attending the Summit. The advisory session included one-on-one consultations with international experts on FOSS.