President of India Visits Portugal; Holds Bilateral Talks and Commemorates 50 Years of Diplomatic Ties

In a landmark visit, the President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu, arrived in Lisbon on April 6, 2025, marking the first State Visit by an Indian President to Portugal in 27 years. The visit underscores the deep-rooted and growing partnership between the two nations.

On April 7, President Murmu was received with full ceremonial honours by the President of the Republic of Portugal, H.E. Mr Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, at the historic Praça do Império in Lisbon. The warm welcome included a Guard of Honour and showcased the strong diplomatic bond between India and Portugal.

During her stay, President Murmu paid homage to Portuguese literary legend Luis Vaz de Camões by laying a wreath at his tomb in the Church of Santa Maria. She also toured the renowned Monastery of Jerónimos, an architectural marvel from the 16th century and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

A highlight of the visit was the joint launch of commemorative postage stamps celebrating 50 years of diplomatic relations between India and Portugal. The stamps, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of both countries, feature Rajasthan’s iconic Kalbeliya costume and Portugal’s traditional Viana do Castelo dress—symbols of the vibrant folk traditions of the two nations.

President Murmu and President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa engaged in substantive one-on-one and delegation-level talks. Their discussions covered a wide range of bilateral, regional, and global issues. President Murmu emphasized that India-Portugal relations are not only historic but have evolved into a modern, multifaceted partnership. She called for deeper cooperation in areas such as trade and investment, science and technology, information technology and digital innovation, renewable energy, connectivity, and mobility.

Both leaders issued press statements reaffirming their commitment to further strengthening the bilateral relationship.

President Murmu’s visit marks a significant step in enhancing India’s engagement with Portugal and the broader European region.