President Murmu Receives City Key of Honour

President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu’s visit to Portugal on April 7, 2025, marks a significant milestone in the diplomatic relationship between India and Portugal, especially as both nations celebrate 50 years of bilateral relations. The visit emphasized cultural ties, technological collaboration, and mutual aspirations as knowledge-based economies. Her receipt of the prestigious ‘City Key of Honour’ from the Mayor of Lisbon, along with her participation in a state banquet hosted by the Portuguese President, H.E. Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, reflected the warmth and strategic importance of the bilateral relationship.

Key Highlights of President Murmu’s Visit to Lisbon

City Key of Honour

• President Murmu received the ‘City Key of Honour’ from the Mayor of Lisbon at City Hall.

She expressed gratitude and praised Lisbon for its,

• Open-mindedness
• Cultural diversity
• Tolerance
• Progressive approach to innovation and digital transformation

Technological Collaboration Opportunities

Lisbon was recognized as a hub of,

• Technological innovation
• Digital public infrastructure
• Digital transition
• President Murmu highlighted these as areas for further India-Portugal cooperation.

Banquet at Palacio da Ajuda

• Attended an official banquet hosted by Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa.

Reiterated strong cultural and historical connections including,

• Shared architectural influences
• Historical landmarks
• Linguistic traces
• Culinary traditions

Celebrating 50 Years of Bilateral Relations

• 2025 marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between India and Portugal.
• President emphasized transformation of historic ties into a dynamic and visionary partnership.

Areas of Expanding Cooperation,

• Science and Technology
• Defence collaboration
• Information Technology (IT)
• Start-up ecosystem
• Research and education
• Cultural exchange

India’s Vision as a Knowledge Economy

Emphasis on,

• Innovation
• Digital infrastructure
• Start-up development
• Inclusive and sustainable growth model
• Portugal seen as a strategic partner in realizing this vision.

EU-India Relations: Portugal’s Role

• Acknowledged Portugal’s key role in strengthening India-EU ties:
• 2000: First India-EU Summit under Portugal’s EU Presidency.
• 2021: “India-EU Plus 27” Leadership Summit hosted in Portugal.

Future Outlook

President Murmu expressed optimism that,

• Bilateral relations will broaden further.
• The partnership will benefit both nations and contribute globally.