Portugal President Sousa meets Murmu, says India remains partner in building multilateral world

“The Indian community in Portugal is strong and powerful; 50,000 people, young students come from India to Portugal and study here. Our cooperation in high tech; renewables, culture and defence. A multilateral, open-minded world with free trade, without the temptation of breaking or violating international law or the charter of the United Nations,” he said during their joint address as quoted ANI.

“India is the greatest democracy in the world and a powerful economy, and shares values and principles. That’s why, your excellence, Madam President Droupadi Murmu, a dear friend of Portugal, it’s an honour having you here in our country and to work together for a long-lasting friendship and partnership. It’s more than 50 years of diplomatic relations. It’s a whole future, thinking of our people and thinking of the world," he said.

Murmu Reached Liosbon

Murmu reached Lisbon on the first leg of her State Visit to Portugal and the Slovak Republic.

This is the first-ever visit by an Indian President to Portugal in 27 years. 

Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa received Murmu at the historic ‘Praca do Imperio’ in Lisbon.

She was accorded a ceremonial welcome with the Guard of Honour.

During her visit to the nation, Murmu also visited the Church of Santa Maria and laid a wreath at the tomb of Luis Vaz de Camoes – the national poet of Portugal.

She also visited the Monastery of Jerónimos – a masterpiece of 16th-century architecture in Portugal.

In the next engagement, President Droupadi Murmu and President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa of Portugal graced the launch of postage stamps commemorating 50 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries. 

The stamps reflect the rich artistic and cultural heritage of India and Portugal and feature vibrant folk attire from both countries: Rajasthan's distinctive Kalbeliya costume and the traditional Viana do Castelo dress from Portugal.

India-Portugal Bilateral Relations

Later, Murmu discussed various aspects of bilateral relations and global and regional issues of shared interest with President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa of Portugal during one-to-one meeting and delegation-level talks.

Murmu said that India-Portugal relations are historic and these have continued to grow stronger and have evolved into a modern, multifaceted and dynamic partnership.

She stressed the need to further strengthen long-standing bilateral ties, especially in trade and investment, science and technology, IT and digital technology, renewable energy, connectivity and mobility.