Brasilia, September 2 (RHC)-- Former Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva announced that he will be a candidate in the country's 2018 presidential election.

Addressing a forum in Sao Paulo, Lula da Silva said his candidacy seeks to give continuity to the progressive policies implemented in the South American country over the past 12 years.

Lula da Silva added that he is ready and willing to confront promoters of the media campaign against current Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff. He stressed that his candidacy will once again demonstrate the significant strength gained by the ruling Workers' Party, and its determination to continue implementing social inclusion projects.