President Murmu in Portugal: First State Visit in 27 Years Marks Strengthening of India-Portugal Ties

Lisbon: In a historic development, President of India Droupadi Murmu arrived in Portugal on April 6, marking the first visit by an Indian President to the country in 27 years. The visit, part of a two-nation tour including the Slovak Republic, underscores India’s growing diplomatic outreach to Europe.

On April 7, President Murmu was accorded a ceremonial welcome at the iconic Praca do Imperio in Lisbon by President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa of Portugal. The warm reception included a Guard of Honour, reflecting the cordial ties shared between the two nations.

Honouring Cultural Legacy

President Murmu began the day with a visit to the Church of Santa Maria, where she laid a wreath at the tomb of Portugal’s national poet, Luis Vaz de Camoes. She also visited the Monastery of Jerónimos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Portugal’s rich 16th-century architecture.

Celebrating 50 Years of Diplomatic Ties

A key highlight of the visit was the joint launch of commemorative postage stamps by the two Presidents to mark 50 years of diplomatic relations between India and Portugal. The stamps, showcasing Rajasthan’s Kalbeliya costume and Portugal’s Viana do Castelo dress, celebrate the vibrant folk traditions and cultural heritage of both nations.

Strengthening Bilateral Engagement

During one-on-one and delegation-level talks, President Murmu and President Rebelo de Sousa discussed a wide range of bilateral, regional, and global issues. Emphasising the historic nature of India-Portugal ties, President Murmu noted:

“India-Portugal relations are historic and these have continued to grow stronger. Our ties have evolved into a modern, multifaceted and dynamic partnership.”

The Indian President called for deeper collaboration in sectors such as trade and investment, science and technology, information technology, digital innovation, renewable energy, mobility, and connectivity.

Following their discussions, both leaders issued press statements reaffirming their commitment to further elevate bilateral relations.

Strategic Outreach to Europe

President Murmu’s visit signals India’s intent to enhance cooperation with European partners and marks a renewed diplomatic engagement with Portugal, a country with deep historical connections to India. Her visit is expected to pave the way for expanded ties and new avenues of cooperation across multiple sectors.