India and Portugal have agreed to further strengthen their partnership in key areas including trade, defence, renewable energy and education, as the two countries mark the 50th anniversary of the restoration of diplomatic ties this year.
This commitment was made during the 5th India-Portugal Foreign Office Consultations, held in Lisbon on November 3. The talks were co-chaired by Sibi George, Secretary (West) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Helena Malcata, Director General of Foreign Policy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Portugal.
The two sides reviewed the entire range of bilateral relations, covering political, economic and cultural cooperation, and agreed to accelerate discussions on ongoing bilateral agreements for an early conclusion.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the two delegations also exchanged views on India-EU relations and regional and global issues of mutual interest, reaffirming their resolve to pursue close coordination in multilateral forums, including the United Nations.
During his visit, George also met Ana Isabel Xavier, Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, for talks aimed at broadening strategic engagement.
Highlighting the growing momentum in relations, both sides expressed appreciation for the high-level exchanges held this year, including visits to Portugal by the President of India, the Speaker of the Lok Sabha and the Finance Minister.
It was agreed that the next round of consultations would be held in New Delhi, on mutually convenient dates.
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