In a discussion held at the Observer Research Foundation (ORF) on December 12, Paulo Rangel, Minister of State and Foreign Affairs of Portugal, eloquently emphasised the deep cultural, historical, and strategic ties between India and Portugal. Chaired by Gautam Chikermane, Vice-President of ORF, the dialogue provided a platform for the minister to articulate his vision for the bilateral relationship, grounded in shared values and a commitment to addressing global challenges.
Minister Rangel began by acknowledging the historical depth of the India-Portugal connection. He described India as “a land of fascination, a land of mystery,” underscoring its profound influence on Portuguese culture and literature. “India is intertwined in our culture and our history. It is present in our most important poets and writers, in our greatest achievements,” he remarked.
This long-standing relationship, however, is not confined to historical recollection. Rangel stressed the need to balance reverence for the past with a forward-looking perspective. “We have to look not only to the bilateral relations but also to the multilateral stances of these two states in the global lens,” he stated, reflecting on the modern dynamics of India-Portugal relations.
A significant theme of Minister Rangel’s speech was the shared commitment to multilateralism and global diversity. He noted the strong alignment between India and Portugal in advocating for international law, human rights, and the diversity of the global order.
Highlighting the recent diplomatic engagements between the two nations, he cited meetings between Indian and Portuguese leaders at key global forums such as the G20. “Prime Ministers Modi and Montenegro have just met on the margin of the G20 meeting in Rio de Janeiro,” he said, adding that Minister S. Jaishankar’s visit to Lisbon in 2023 further solidified these ties.
As 2025 marks the 50th anniversary of the re-establishment of diplomatic relations between India and Portugal, Rangel emphasised the importance of commemorating this milestone. “These 50 years of friendship, of cooperation in many, many fields, are the foundation on which I think we should base our further relationship,” he said.
The minister sees this occasion as an opportunity to “relaunch this relationship” and strengthen cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, and cultural exchanges. The anniversary, according to Rangel, symbolises a partnership built on mutual respect and shared aspirations.
Looking to the future, Minister Rangel identified economic and commercial relations as a top priority. “I would choose as priorities for the future, the economic field, the economic relations, and also the scientific and academic relations,” he stated.
Rangel also emphasised the importance of collaboration to address global challenges such as climate change, rising sea levels, and the pressures of protectionism. He urged both nations to work together to foster international trade and navigate the complexities of the current geopolitical and geo-economic landscape.
In addition to trade and diplomacy, Rangel highlighted the potential for increased academic and scientific cooperation. These areas, he believes, can serve as catalysts for innovation and mutual growth, enhancing the India-Portugal relationship further.
Minister Rangel’s visit to India, as he pointed out, holds special significance. “This is my first visit to an ancient state in my capacity as Foreign Minister,” he noted, adding that it reflects Portugal’s strong commitment to its relationship with India. He expressed his admiration for India’s enduring cultural richness and its pivotal role on the global stage.
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