Celebrating 50 years of reestablishment of India-Portugal diplomatic Relations
India and Portugal enjoy a multi-faceted relationship that is rooted in history. The relationship has acquired modern dimensions in recent times with the strengthening of political, economic, defence, cultural and technological co-operation. Both countries share common democratic values and are liberal, open-minded, pluralistic societies with a similar point of view on several issues of international concern. With a shared commitment to democratic values and multilateralism, our bilateral relations continue to thrive based on mutual interests, shared values and emerging global dynamics.
Cultural and historical ties between the two countries are an important dimension of the relationship. The manifold and tangible marks of our shared past include heritage architecture, words in Portuguese and Indian languages, as well as Portuguese street names and surnames. Chillies that are so associated with Indian Food were introduced by the Portuguese. Even the agrarian landscape of India changed as contact with Portuguese led to the introduction of fruits such as tomatoes, pineapples and papaya. Popular Indian dishes like vindaloo, xacuti and bebinka, with their Portuguese origins add a delectable layer to our gastronomic and culinary connections. A key driver of this growing relationship has been the vibrant Indian diaspora that has played an important role in strengthening bilateral ties and serving as a living bridge between the two nations. In recent times, a number of Indians have come to Portugal, in search of new opportunities, and now call Portugal their home. They are making valued contributions to the economy and society of Portugal.
The recent past has seen increased cooperation between India and Portugal, especially in the areas of trade and investment, science and technology, education and culture. India’s growing economy offers opportunities for Portuguese businesses in areas such as infrastructure development, renewable energy, construction, and technology. India’s expanding middle class is also an attractive market for Portuguese goods and services. Both nations are now looking at expanding relations in new and upcoming areas such as IT, digital technology, renewable energy, start-ups and innovation, mobility of professionals and skilled workers, green energy and green hydrogen. Portugal’s expertise in renewable energy has been an area of interest for India, as it strives to meet its ambitious renewable energy targets. The growing presence of Indian students in Portuguese universities is an important aspect of the growing educational ties between the two nations. Both countries are exploring new ways to collaborate in research and development.
Our relations have been guided by regular high level political interactions. Both sides regularly meet, at the highest levels, bilaterally as well as on the margins of international events such as the G20 and UNGA. The bilateral ties are also assisted by the steady hum of engines of growing commercial engagement. It is encouraging to see growth in trade which reached €1.25 billion last year despite global disruptions and challenges. Both countries are also working together on international issues, particularly in the areas of climate change, reform of the multilateral system and fight against terror. Portugal has supported India’s aspirations to play a more prominent role on the global stage and has been an advocate of India’s permanent membership in the United Nations Security Council.
The year 2025, has a special significance as we are commemorating 50 years of re-establishment of India-Portugal bilateral relations. The top leadership of both countries has decided to celebrate this landmark year in a befitting manner. Several dance, music, cultural, academic, literary and film events are being organised to mark this year. The pinnacle of these will be the forthcoming state visit by the President of India. President Droupadi Murmu will visit Portugal at the invitation of President of the Portuguese Republic on 7-8 April 2025. The visit is emblematic of the importance that India places on its relations with Portugal. Along with the President of the Portuguese republic, she will release a commemorative stamp celebrating the important milestone of the golden jubilee of the re-establishment of our diplomatic relations.
Today, India and Portugal are on similar trajectories as two democracies focused on boosting sustainable economic growth, trade, investment, industry and innovation. With our natural synergies and scope for collaboration across sectors, our half a millennium-old historical association is firmly set on the course towards becoming a dynamic and forward-looking partnership. The future of India-Portugal relations is bright and filled with opportunities for further concord to build a robust and dynamic relationship. By leveraging our shared history and cultural ties, as well as our common interests in the modern world, India and Portugal can look at a prosperous future of both the nations.
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