The President of the Republic addressed a message of congratulations to the President elect of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, Nicolas Maduro.

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

“Mister President,

On the occasion of Your Excellency’s being empowered as President of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, I want to address you, on behalf of the People of Portugal and in my own personal name, our warmest congratulations and sincere wishes for your success in the performance of the exalted office which you have been called upon to serve.

I am certain that, during Your Excellency’s mandate, the close bonds of friendship and cooperation that link Portugal and Venezuela, where such an expressive community of Portuguese citizens and Portuguese descendants reside, will continue being deepened and developing, for the benefit of our two peoples and countries.

Renewing my wishes for your personal good fortune and for the prosperity and progress of the friendly people of Venezuela, I beg you to accept, Mister President, my very highest regards.

Aníbal Cavaco Silva”