The President of India, Droupadi Murmu, concluded a landmark visit to Portugal, fostering diplomatic and cultural ties while engaging in discussions to deepen the partnership between the two nations. The final day of this visit was marked by high-profile meetings, insightful visits, and heartfelt interactions with the Indian diaspora in Portugal.
During her time in Lisbon, Droupadi Murmu met with the President of Assembleia Da Republica, the Portuguese Parliament. Both leaders affirmed their commitment to enhancing inter-parliamentary exchanges, emphasizing that such dialogues would further strengthen the people-to-people ties binding India and Portugal. The President also held a detailed meeting with the Prime Minister of Portugal. Together, they explored new avenues for collaboration, focusing on sectors like trade and commerce, defense, science and technology, and energy. Both sides agreed that the potential for cooperation between the two nations is immense and largely untapped.
One of the highlights of the President’s visit was her tour of the Champalimaud Foundation in Lisbon. Accompanied by the President of Portugal, she witnessed groundbreaking research initiatives in neuroscience, oncology, experimental clinical research, and automated medicine delivery. Indian researchers and scholars working at the foundation showcased their significant contributions to advancing global scientific knowledge. The President praised these professionals for their dedication and their role in fostering closer scientific collaborations between India and Portugal.
As a gesture of respect and commemoration, Droupadi Murmu paid floral tributes at the statues of Mahatma Gandhi and Kasturba Gandhi. Her visit to the Radha-Krishna Temple further underscored the cultural and spiritual bonds connecting the Indian diaspora in Portugal with their homeland.
Culminating her engagements in Lisbon, the President addressed an enthusiastic gathering of the Indian community at a reception hosted by the Ambassador of India to Portugal. The event saw the participation of members of Parliament and senior dignitaries, along with Indian expatriates who had traveled from across Portugal to hear the President speak. Addressing the vibrant and diverse audience, Droupadi Murmu emphasized that the Indian diaspora is a living embodiment of the values India cherishes—democracy, pluralism, and fraternity. She acknowledged their invaluable contributions to Portuguese society, praising their efforts to promote Indian culture abroad and their success in building strong community networks. The President expressed heartfelt gratitude to the government and people of Portugal for welcoming and supporting the Indian community.
In her speech, Droupadi Murmu reiterated India’s commitment to strengthening its connection with its diaspora, outlining various initiatives undertaken by the Government of India to assist Indian citizens overseas. She assured them of the unwavering support of Indian missions worldwide, emphasizing that the motherland will always stand by its people, no matter where they reside.
Following this deeply impactful and well-received visit to Portugal, the President departed for the Slovak Republic, marking the next phase of her diplomatic tour.
