Marco Rubio Sees Hope in Brazilian President's Visit to Washington

U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio on Monday welcomed the visit of Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff to the White House on Monday as a step toward boosting trade ties between the U.S. -- particularly Florida -- and the Sunshine States biggest South American business partner.

In a statement released Monday, Rubio said the visit could have wider implications as well.

"Brazil is an indispensable trade partner and American ally, Rubio said. As Brazil continues its rise as a global power, President Rousseff's visit is a reminder that the U.S. must continue strengthening our economic relationship, boost cooperation on security and energy issues, and also encourage them to use their platform to be a voice for human rights in Latin America and worldwide.

In October, Gov. Rick Scott led a trade delegation of Florida businesses to Brazil to broaden already-strong relations between Florida and Brazil -- relations that have already passed the states traditionally strongest partner.

Last year, Brazilians overtook Canadians as the foreign group spending the most tourist dollars in Miami, according to the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau. Brazilians spent an estimated $1.14 billion in the Miami-Dade area on hotels, restaurants, entertainment and shopping, compared with $840.9 million by Canadians.