Mister President,

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

The bonds of friendship and cooperation which link our two counties, partners within the framework of the European Union, allow us to face the future of our relations with trust and ambition, taking full advantage of the wide opportunities which are placed before us in order that they become deeper and stronger.

In the fond hope of seeing you once again in Naples, on the occasion of the meeting of the Arraiolos Group, I beg you to accept, Mister President, my highest consideration and personal esteem.

Aníbal Cavaco Silva
President of the Portuguese Republic