The French daily Le Monde has named Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva its "Man of the Year" for 2009.In its edition appearing Thursday, Le Monde praises the Brazilian leader for giving Latin America a new image.
The daily also says that Lula has created a dynamic, democratic nation that fights poverty while promoting economic growth.
France and Brazil are developing close ties, and the leaders of both countries meet often.
It is the first time Le Monde has named a person of the year.