The President of the Republic sent a congratulatory message to architect João Luís Carrilho da Graça, for having been awarded the 2008 Pessoa Prize.

Following is the text of the President’s message:

"I warmly congratulate architect João Luis Carrilho da Graça, who has just been awarded the 2008 Pessoa Prize.

Author of renowned work, both in our Country and abroad, Carrilho da Graça is one of the people who have contributed most towards the growing prestige of contemporary Portuguese architecture.

It is thus my wish, in my own personal name and on behalf of all the Portuguese, to sincerely congratulate him for having been awarded this distinction.

Aníbal Cavaco Silva"