Former lawyer Wilson Witzel, who took up office in January, insisted “there is no homophobia in my administration whatsoever”.
“All kinds of love are welcome,” he said. “We welcome all with open arms.”
Rio de Janeiro state hopes to revitalise its tourist industry, with plans to open five overseas offices next year and spend $5 million on tourism promotion.
Offices will open in London, Lisbon, Orlando, Buenos Aires and possibly Shanghai, with the state also participating in a variety of travel shows.
