Madam President,

On the occasion of Your Excellency’s election as President of the Republic of India I wish to address you, in my own name and on behalf of the People of Portugal, our warmest congratulations and best wishes for your success in the exalted office with which you have been entrusted.

I am certain that during Your Excellency’s mandate, the bonds of friendship and cooperation that link our two countries will find new opportunities to be developed and deepened. As I had the opportunity to stress during my unforgettable State Visit to India, in January of this year, I am firmly determined that such will be the case, fully convinced that a closer partnership between Portugal and India conforms to the best interests of both our People and our Countries.

I beg you to accept, Madam President, my sincere wishes for Your Excellency’s personal good fortune and for the prosperity and progress for the friendly people of India.

Aníbal Cavaco Silva