The President of the Republic addressed a message of congratulations to President Barack Obama, of the United States of America, for having been awarded the 2009 Nobel Peace Prize.

Following is the text of the message from President Aníbal Cavaco Silva:

"Mister President,

On receiving the news of the decision of the Nobel Committee to award you the 2009 Nobel Peace Prize, I wish to address you, in my own personal name and that of the People of Portugal, our warmest congratulations.

This decision is the recognition of the endeavour that Your Excellency has been placing in the search of common and global answers for the issues which affect the world of today, as well as the actions you are developing on behalf of a fairer and more balanced international order, based upon values of peace, dialogue amongst peoples and cultures and respect for Human Rights.

Renewing my sincere congratulations, I beg you to accept, Mister President, the assurance of my feelings of particular esteem and great regard.

Aníbal Cavaco Silva"