The President of the Republic addressed a message to the President of the Republic of Angola, José Eduardo dos Santos, on the occasion of the Angolan National Day.

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

"Mister President and my Dear Friend,

On the occasion of the celebrations of the National Day of the Republic of Angola, I am particularly pleased to have the honour to address Your Excellency, on behalf of the People of Portugal and in my own personal name, our warmest congratulations, as well as sincere and friendly wishes for the progress and prosperity of the fraternal People of Angola.

Portugal and Angola hold a relationship based on a solid and fraternal friendship, whence they have known how to take advantage to build an extensive partnership that brings them mutual benefits, in an ever growing realm of affairs. A partnership in which both countries recognize a strategic value and that is increasingly assertive, both bilaterally and internationally, and also including the CPLP framework. In this highly significant date for Angola, but also for Portugal, I want to reiterate to Your Excellency my firm personal drive in the strengthening of the bonds of friendship that link us, and of the partnership that these have brought on, convinced that this is the better answer to the feelings and interests of our peoples.

While renewing my congratulations, I beg you to accept, Mister President and my dear Friend, my best regards and feelings of highest consideration and personal esteem.

Aníbal Cavaco Silva"