RNS: President Droupadi Murmu was presented with the Key to the City of Lisbon, the highest honor bestowed by the city, during a special ceremony hosted by Lisbon’s Mayor, Carlos Manuel. This recognition highlights the strong and growing relationship between India and Portugal.
In her address, President Murmu noted that the Indian community in Portugal, the fourth-largest expatriate group, plays a vital role as a cultural bridge and contributes significantly to the country’s economy. She also emphasized the deep-rooted cultural ties between the two nations, highlighting the influence of Indian culture, including yoga, on Portuguese society.
President Murmu expressed her vision for a developed India by 2047, guided by the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family). She stated that India remains committed to building a sustainable world and considers Portugal a key partner in this mission.
Later in the day, President Murmu engaged in delegation-level talks with Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa. In a joint media address, both leaders affirmed that the historic India-Portugal partnership is evolving into a modern, multi-dimensional cooperation. A joint statement released after the talks revealed that both nations will strengthen ties in trade, renewable energy, green hydrogen, IT, start-ups, innovation, and skilled mobility. They also agreed to enhance collaboration in tourism, culture, education, pharmaceuticals, and coordinate efforts at the United Nations.
During her visit, President Murmu and President de Sousa also launched commemorative postage stamps marking 50 years of diplomatic relations between India and Portugal. The stamps, which reflect the rich cultural heritage of both countries, feature traditional folk attire from India’s Rajasthan and Portugal’s Viana do Castelo.
Earlier, President Murmu laid a wreath at the tomb of Portuguese national poet Luis Vaz de Camoes, paying homage to the cultural legacy shared by the two nations. She will also meet with Portuguese Prime Minister Luis Montenegro, Speaker of Parliament Jose Pedro Aguiar Branco, and members of the Indian community in Portugal. A special event hosted by the Mayor of Lisbon is also on the President’s agenda.
This visit is significant as it coincides with the 50th anniversary of the re-establishment of diplomatic relations between India and Portugal.
Following her visit to Portugal, President Murmu will travel to Slovakia from April 9 to 10 at the invitation of Slovakian President Peter Pellegrini. This will be the first visit by an Indian President to Slovakia in 29 years.
