The President of Ireland, Michael Higgins, and Mrs. Sabina Higgins, will hold a State Visit to Portugal between 9 and 12 December, at the invitation of President Cavaco Silva.

The official programme will begin, on 9 December, with the laying of a wreath by President Michael Higgins, on the tomb of Luis Vaz de Camões, in Jerónimos Monastery. President Michael Higgins and Mrs. Sabina Higgins will then be received, in the Palace of Belém, by the President of the Republic and Mrs. Cavaco Silva, this being followed by a working meeting between both Heads of State.

President Michael Higgins will later be received by the Portuguese Prime Minister, who will host a luncheon in his honour.

The first day’s programme will end with a dinner, held in Ajuda National Palace, hosted by President and Mrs. Cavaco Silva, in honour of the President of Ireland and Mrs. Sabina Higgins.

On 10 December, President Michael Higgins will visit the European Agency of Marine Security, take part in an entrepreneurial lunch and hold a meeting with the Speaker of Parliament. On that same day, President and Mrs. Cavaco Silva will be the guests of honour at a session of Irish poetry and music.

On 11 December, the President of Ireland will travel to Porto, where he will be received by the City’s Mayor, take part in an official luncheon held in his honour and visit an Innovation Centre.

The President of Ireland’s retinue will include a member of the Irish Government.