The President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu was presented the ‘City Key of Honour’ by the Mayor of Lisbon yesterday (April 7, 2025) at the City Hall in Lisbon, Portugal.
While addressing the gathering, President Murmu expressed gratitude to the people and the leadership of Lisbon, recognizing the city’s open-mindedness, cultural diversity, and progressive approach toward digital and technological innovation.
Later that evening, President Murmu attended a banquet hosted by H.E. Mr Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, the President of Portugal, at Palacio da Ajuda, where she highlighted the profound cultural connections between India and Portugal. These connections, rooted in shared history and traditions, find expression through architecture, language, cuisine, and historical landmarks.
This year marks 50 years of diplomatic relations between the two nations, underscoring the transformative and forward-looking partnership. The President acknowledged advancements in bilateral cooperation across fields, including science, technology, defense, education, cultural exchanges, and start-ups. She emphasized India’s commitment as a knowledge-based economy and pointed to Portugal’s importance as a partner in achieving inclusive growth and sustainable development.
Moreover, the President hailed Portugal’s role in fostering stronger India-EU relations, recalling pivotal summits held during Portugal’s presidencies of the European Union in 2000 and 2021.
President Murmu concluded her remarks with optimism, foreseeing deeper ties between India and Portugal benefiting not only both nations but also the global community.
