Portugal and Greece strengthen strategic partnership

Prime Minister Luís Montenegro highlighted the strategic alignment between Portugal and Greece and called for closer bilateral cooperation in areas such as defence, energy, civil protection and technological innovation. The two leaders also discussed the need for an ambitious, supportive and balanced European Union Multiannual Financial Framework that benefits all Member States.

During an official visit to Athens-the first by a Portuguese Prime Minister in ten years-Luís Montenegro stressed that Portugal and Greece are united by their maritime vocation, democratic values and commitment to European integration.

Following a working meeting with Greek Prime Minister Kyriákos Mitsotákis, Luís Montenegro said that the two countries demonstrate that it is possible to "maintain sound public finances while ensuring people's quality of life and well-being, delivering high-quality public services and building more competitive economies". He added that both Portugal and Greece are now attracting significant investment.

The Prime Minister also argued that relations between the two countries "have reached a point where they can and should be further strengthened", identifying energy, civil protection, defence, knowledge and technological skills as priority areas for cooperation to promote stronger economic growth and create better opportunities for citizens.

Portugal and Greece also reaffirmed their shared commitment to strengthening European defence capabilities and NATO. Luís Montenegro called for "greater capability, greater cooperation, greater interoperability" and "greater solidarity in investment", while taking advantage of the development of the defence industry to create "better jobs" and strengthen investment in scientific knowledge and innovation.

In this context, he welcomed the possibility of Greece strengthening its air capabilities with KC-390 aircraft produced by Embraer with the participation of the Portuguese aerospace industry.

The two countries also advocated a more competitive European Union, with less bureaucracy, and a new Multiannual Financial Framework that preserves Cohesion Policy and the Common Agricultural Policy while reinforcing investment in competitiveness, innovation and cohesion among Member States.

The meeting also highlighted cooperation between Portugal and Greece in protecting the European Union's external borders through Frontex, as well as coordination within international organisations. Luís Montenegro also thanked Greece for its willingness to share the experience gained as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, a role Portugal will soon embrace.

The two Prime Ministers also reaffirmed their shared positions on continued support for Ukraine, the pursuit of diplomatic solutions to conflicts, stronger relations between the European Union and Africa and its Mediterranean partners, and the importance of safeguarding maritime security in an increasingly demanding international environment.