Presidential Candidates Show Stark Differences
Luís Marques Mendes, a candidate for President of the Republic, has welcomed the announcement of André Ventura's presidential bid but emphasized that their campaigns are radically different. In a statement made during a visit to the Lajes Base on Terceira Island in the Azores, Mendes highlighted the contrasting goals of their candidacies.
Mendes Aims for Unity, Ventura for Division
"I salute André Ventura's candidacy, as I do all candidacies democratically, but the objectives of the two are radically different. André Ventura is running to represent a part of the Portuguese people. I am running to represent all Portuguese people," Mendes declared. He further explained that his campaign, supported by the PSD, is completely different in attitude from Ventura's, focusing on anti-radicalism, moderation, centrism, experience, and unification.
Visit to Lajes Base and Geopolitical Insights
During his visit to the American-used air base, Mendes addressed questions about the need to revise the bilateral agreement between Portugal and the USA regarding military use. He recalled a past "nightmare" when there were fears of the base closing, but noted that recent conflicts in the Middle East and Eastern Europe have given Lajes a new geostrategic importance. Mendes stated that the American presence is now solid and necessary, and he sees no priority for revising the agreement, warning that such a move could be counterproductive.
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