• India and Portugal agreed to deepen bilateral ties, particularly in trade and investment, renewable energy and connectivity, as President Droupadi Murmu and her Portuguese counterpart Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa held talks in Lisbon on April 7.

• During the talks held at the Portuguese President’s official residence, Belem Palace, the two sides also agreed to strengthen cooperation in the United Nations and other multilateral forums.

• Both Presidents graced the launch of postage stamps commemorating 50 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries. The stamps reflect the rich artistic and cultural heritage of India and Portugal, and feature vibrant folk attire from both countries: Rajasthan’s distinctive Kalbeliya costume and the traditional Viana do Castelo dress from Portugal.

• President Murmu said that India-Portugal relations are historic and these have continued to grow stronger and have evolved into a modern, multifaceted and dynamic partnership. She stressed the need to further strengthen long-standing bilateral ties, especially in trade and investment, science and technology, IT and digital technology, renewable energy, connectivity and mobility.

• President Murmu also received the ‘City Key of Honour’ of Lisbon City from the Mayor at a function held at the City Hall. She thanked the Mayor and the people of Lisbon for the gesture.

• The visit is taking place after a gap of 27 years, and comes as India and Portugal are celebrating 50 years of re-establishment of diplomatic relations.

• The last State visit took place in 1998 when then President K.R. Narayanan visited Portugal.

• Trade between India and Portugal is valued at $1.5 billion and has been growing steadily, with a 50 per cent increase over the last five years.

• The Indian community in Portugal numbers approximately 1,25,000, including over 35,000 Indian nationals and 90,000 persons of Indian origin. Portugal has a population of around 10 million.

(The author is a trainer for Civil Services aspirants.)