The President of the Republic addressed a message of congratulations to the President elect of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin.

Following is the text of the congratulatory message sent by President Aníbal Cavaco Silva:

“Mister President,

On the occasion of Your Excellency’s election as President of the Russian Federation I want to address you, on behalf of the People of Portugal and in my own personal name, our warmest congratulations and wishes for your success in the exalted functions you have been called upon to perform.

I am certain that, during the course of Your Excellency’s mandate, the bonds of lasting friendship and cooperation that link our two countries will find new opportunities to be strengthened and enlarged, for the benefit of both our Peoples.

Renewing my congratulations, I beg you to accept, Mister President, my sincere wishes for Your Excellency’s personal welfare and for the prosperity and progress of our friends the People of Russia.

With my best regards,

Aníbal Cavaco Silva”