Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, celebrated the 40th anniversary of Portugal's entry into the European Union (then the European Economic Community) with heartfelt praise for the "Portuguese soul". Inspired by the legacy of national figures, von der Leyen highlighted Portugal's role in the Erasmus program, clean energies, and its visionary approach to ocean preservation.
In a statement, von der Leyen reflected on Portugal's pioneering spirit since the 15th century, establishing trade links with distant and diverse cultures, breaking down trade barriers, and creating the first true global village. She expressed being "deeply inspired" by this legacy and by the Portuguese in leadership roles across the EU and globally, likely alluding to figures like António Guterres, UN Secretary-General, and António Costa, President of the European Council.
Von der Leyen emphasized that while EU membership brought Portugal decisive economic and social development, Portugal enriched Europe with a sense of community, closeness, and solidarity. She praised the ingenuity of the Portuguese people, their passion for Erasmus, leadership in clean energies, and innovative perspectives on the sea and ocean preservation.
The "Portuguese soul"—characterized by courage, saudade, and entrepreneurship—reminds us that the most challenging seas are not to be feared but navigated, von der Leyen remarked, celebrating both Portugal's 40 years in the EU and the EU's presence in Portugal.
In Lisbon, a high-level ceremony at the Jerónimos Monastery marked the occasion, featuring speeches by President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, Prime Minister Luís Montenegro, former European Commission President José Manuel Durão Barroso, and António Costa. The event included cultural moments and the signing of the Lisbon Declaration, renewing Portugal's commitment to the EU.
An interactive space at Cais do Sodré engaged the community in reflecting on Portugal's European journey, the impact of EU membership, and Europe's future. Nationwide, activities like conferences, radio programs, and river celebrations commemorated the anniversary.
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