China and Portugal reaffirmed their long-standing friendship and commitment to stronger cooperation as President Xi Jinping met Portuguese Prime Minister Luís Montenegro at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Tuesday.
Marking the 20th anniversary of the China-Portugal comprehensive strategic partnership, President Xi said both nations share deep historical ties and the spirit of openness and resilience. He praised the successful resolution of the Macao issue through dialogue, calling it a model of mutual respect between countries with different systems.
Xi stressed the need to deepen political trust, expand cooperation in innovation, green development, ocean economy, and healthcare, and use Macao’s unique position as a bridge for cooperation with Portuguese-speaking countries. He also called for greater cultural, educational, tourism, and scientific exchanges to strengthen people-to-people links.
Highlighting today’s turbulent international environment, Xi urged Portugal to work with China in upholding true multilateralism, supporting the UN system, safeguarding free trade, and improving global governance. He also emphasised the importance of stable China-EU relations.
Prime Minister Montenegro conveyed greetings from President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa and reaffirmed Portugal’s commitment to the one-China policy. He praised Macao’s achievements since its return and expressed gratitude for China’s support during Portugal’s economic challenges.
Montenegro said Portugal looks forward to boosting trade, investment, and cooperation in energy, finance, public health, and water management. He also welcomed China’s role in global governance and pledged to support the stable growth of EU-China relations.
Foreign Minister Wang Yi also attended the meeting.
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