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In a strong diplomatic gesture, Portugal has reiterated its firm support for India’s bid for permanent membership in a reformed United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
The announcement came during President Droupadi Murmu’s two-day state visit to Lisbon, marking a renewed commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and advancing global governance reform.
During a media briefing, Secretary (West) in the Ministry of External Affairs, Tanmaya Lal, said that Portugal continues to be a valuable partner at multilateral fora, including the UN.
“Portuguese leadership reiterated its support for permanent membership of India at the United Nations Security Council,” he stated.
UN Reforms: India’s Global Push
India has long championed the reform of the UNSC, arguing that the 15-member body, created in 1945, no longer reflects the current geopolitical realities of the 21st century.
India believes that as the world’s most populous country and a rising global power, it rightly deserves a permanent seat at the UN’s top decision-making table.
A Historic Visit
President Murmu’s visit to Portugal holds special significance as it coincides with the 50th anniversary of the re-establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
This marks the first state visit by an Indian president to Portugal in 27 years, underscoring the importance both nations place on revitalizing their strategic partnership.
Terming the visit ‘historic’, Secretary Lal noted that bilateral cooperation has grown significantly in recent years, spanning trade, technology, culture, and strategic affairs.
India-EU Partnership & Lusophone Ties
Portugal’s role in enhancing the India-EU relationship was also a key focus of the discussions.
Secretary Lal highlighted Portugal’s contribution to the ongoing India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations and the Trade and Technology Council established at the interministerial level.
“Portugal has been a very good partner in strengthening the India-EU strategic partnership,” Lal added.
Additionally, India and Portugal reaffirmed their shared interest in engaging with Lusophone (Portuguese-speaking) countries, deepening their cultural and linguistic bonds in regions like Africa and South America.
The visit also carried symbolic value, as President Murmu met with key Portuguese leaders and Indian-origin former Prime Minister António Costa, who now serves as the President of the European Council.
His presence underscores the strong personal and diplomatic links between the two nations.
President Murmu’s visit has laid a solid foundation for future collaboration, positioning India and Portugal as steadfast partners on the global stage—united by shared democratic values, strategic interests, and a mutual vision for a more equitable international order.
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