Portugal's New Government Takes Flight: Montenegro Promises a Balanced Approach

Lisboa, 06 jun 2025 (Lusa) -- The first Council of Ministers of the XXV Constitutional Government, now complete with the swearing-in of State Secretaries, took a relaxed family photo at the official residence of São Bento.

A Symbolic Start Prime Minister Luís Montenegro and the 16 ministers posed for photographers, humorously adjusting their positions to avoid shadows, with Montenegro joking, "We'll climb even higher in the coming years."

Political Banter As 43 State Secretaries joined for another photo, Montenegro's playful comments on moving "exceptionally to the left" sparked laughter among the officials. When questioned about negotiations leaning more towards the PS or Chega, Montenegro emphasized a central stance, "We're central, so we'll sway a bit to either side."

Governing Philosophy Montenegro outlined his vision for governance: "Always with this versatile way of moving up, down, gliding left, right, and center, but always forward." He dismissed concerns over the Bank of Portugal's pessimistic economic forecasts, focusing instead on improving citizens' living conditions.

Confidence in the Future Expressing optimism, Montenegro affirmed his belief in Portugal's potential, regardless of comparisons to the previous government's short tenure. The XXV Government, with 60 members—a third being women—marks a new chapter after eight years of PS leadership.

Upcoming Challenges The Assembly of the Republic will debate the government's program in mid-June, with the PS and Chega indicating no intention to block it, while the PCP plans to present a rejection motion. The AD coalition, leading without an absolute majority, faces the task of navigating a fragmented parliament.