The President of the Republic sent a message of congratulations to Professor Henrique Leitão upon his being awarded the 2014 Pessoa Prize.

Following is the text of the message from President Cavaco Silva:

“Upon being advised of the award of the 2014 Pessoa Prize, one of the highest national distinctions in literature, I very warmly congratulate the assignee, Professor Henrique Leitão.

Throughout a brilliant scientific and academic career, which has deserved the recognition of his worldwide peers, Professor Henrique Leitão has distinguished himself as a scientist and as a science historian, whose work has brought innovative perspectives on the contribution of the Portuguese Discoveries to the disclosure of knowledge in their times.

Amongst other works of great inspiration on the philosophy of science, he coordinated the works of mathematician Pedro Nunes, performing an extraordinarily relevant role in the safeguard and dissemination of the Country’s historical and cultural heritage.

This Prize has not only rewarded an exceptional career but also provides an incentive for future works that will be a marker of the history of science in Portugal and a stimulus to all our researchers.

Aníbal Cavaco Silva”