The Latin American television network TeleSUR begins broadcasting in Portuguese this week, thanks to a new partnership with the Brazilian network TV Paraná. This initiative was a long time coming. TeleSUR took steps to begin Portuguese-language programming back in May 2006, but a Brazilian editorial staff was finally assembled last month.
TeleSUR was created with the purpose of featuring diverse programming created by and for Latin Americans. It helps reduce regional dependence on news produced abroad in the US and Europe, and instead represents diverse local perspectives on issues that are important at home.
Airing in 20 countries, TeleSUR has been described as Latin America’s alternative to CNN. Ownership of the station is divided between several countries, and Venezuela’s share is the largest, at around 50 percent. The board of directors includes representatives from several countries including Brazil, which is represented by journalist Beto Almedia.
