I am extremely pleased that the Camões prize has been awarded to his literary works and hope he may carry on with the contribution that, for decades, he has given towards the prestige of the Portuguese language and literature.

The national and international recognition that has repeatedly been demonstrated by such reputed institutions as that which awarded him the Camões Prize, is an unmistakable sign of the high regard given today to the originality and sensitivity of his literary works.

On behalf of the Portuguese and in my own name, I render him our very sincere congratulations.