Namaste.

This afternoon I presented my Credentials to Her Excellency the President of India, in a solemn ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhawan. 

After five weeks in Delhi as Ambassador-designate, making all the contacts possible within that status, I have only confirmed what my preparation for this post had already amply showed me – that in spite of a centuries-old proximity in History and in Culture, the economic relations between Portugal and India are well below their potential.

The attempt to change this course is my main mission, given to me by the President of the Portuguese Republic, by my Prime Minister and by my Minister of Foreign Affairs. I come with three priorities only – to help promote trade and bilateral investment, to increase the offer of Portuguese to the growing number of Indians seeking to learn the language, and to enhance an already dynamic Higher Education cooperation between institutions of both countries. This website, launched almost a month ago, reflects theses priorities and shows the sectors in which bilateral relations, economic, political and cultural, can be further deepened.

We, Portuguese, have come a long way in developing our country over the last three decades, and we stand here today, looking at India eye to eye, as a modern and respected democracy. It is with this spirit that I arrived in Delhi, and I hope that I can translate all my enthusiasm in helping develop, in all fields, the already excellent relations between Portugal and India.

April 1, 2011

And we look forward to your continued visits!

click here to see my team at the Embassy