Strengthening Ties: India and Portugal Discuss Future Cooperation
A parliamentary delegation from Portugal, led by H.E. Mr. Marcos Perestrello de Vasconcellos, Vice President of the Portuguese Parliament, met with the Hon’ble Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha, Shri Harivansh, today in Parliament. The meeting highlighted the strong bilateral relations between India and Portugal, underpinned by decades of friendship, shared democratic values, and rich historical ties.
During the meeting, Shri Harivansh emphasized the significance of the upcoming 50th anniversary of the re-establishment of diplomatic ties between the two nations in 2025, marking a pivotal moment for both countries. He appreciated Portugal’s instrumental role in facilitating India’s engagement with the European Union, recalling key events such as the first India-EU summit in 2000 and the 2021 India-EU + 27 leaders summit held in Porto.
Promoting Political Cooperation and Economic Growth
Shri Harivansh noted the success of the 16th India-EU Summit, co-chaired by former Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which led to significant agreements, including the conclusion of negotiations for the India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA). He remarked on the increasing political cooperation between the two nations, bolstered by regular high-level interactions.
The Deputy Chairman further pointed out the meeting between Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Montengero during the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro in 2024, which focused on strengthening existing economic ties.
Enhancing Cultural Connections
As vibrant democracies, India and Portugal have a history of collaboration through parliamentary exchanges. Shri Harivansh encouraged young members of Parliament from both countries to engage more, as they represent the future of the India-Portugal partnership. He also highlighted the healthy growth in bilateral trade, with sectors such as green and renewable energy, digital technology, and defence seeing robust cooperation alongside traditional trade areas like textiles and agriculture.
Expressing satisfaction with the growing interest in Indian culture in Portugal, Shri Harivansh noted Portugal’s appreciation for yoga, Ayurveda, and Indian arts, as well as the importance of the large Indian diaspora in Portugal, which strengthens cultural ties. He highlighted former Prime Minister Antonio Costa, a prominent member of the diaspora, as a symbol of this connection.
Commitment to Future Collaboration
Shri Harivansh concluded the meeting by reaffirming the natural synergies between India and Portugal. He stressed the need for both nations to continue nurturing their relationship and to explore new opportunities that would realize the full potential of their partnership. The Deputy Chairman reiterated that fostering cultural cooperation is essential, given the shared heritage and historical linkages between the two countries.
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