Immigration Was Topic of Conversation
Questioned about changes to the Nationality Law, Portuguese Prime Minister Luís Montenegro assured that Brazilian President Lula da Silva did not express discomfort regarding Brazilian citizens in Portugal.
"The context was not one of discomfort, but of clarification," Montenegro told journalists, adding that "the way some news appears - and how some political agents also speak about certain topics - causes doubt."
"In a frank conversation, I was able to explain the principles of the legal changes we are promoting," Montenegro stated.
Key Changes to Nationality Law
During the conversation between the two leaders, the Prime Minister reminded Lula da Silva that, despite changes to the nationality law, it is planned "for Portuguese-speaking countries that the requirement will be seven years of residence in Portugal."
According to the Portuguese Prime Minister, the requirement will "change from five to seven years, unlike what happens with the majority of countries" to whom "10 years of residence will be required."
Brazilian Community's Importance in Portugal
"The Brazilian community currently has very significant importance in the Portuguese economy," Montenegro emphasized. "They are very well integrated. There is no problem with the Brazilian community in general."
"We currently have an excellent relationship between the governments of Portugal and Brazil. And we also have very close monitoring of our communities," he added.
Message of Reassurance
The Prime Minister considered it necessary to "leave a word of greater reassurance" to Brazilian nationals who "may be interested in building life projects in Portugal."
"We are an open country that will welcome them, as long as it can be guaranteed that these projects are based on the labor market and the capacity for full integration."
Luís Montenegro took the opportunity to tell Lula da Silva that Brazilians can look at Portugal with optimism.
Source: Lusa
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