Lisbon [Portugal], April 8 (ANI): Marking the beginning of her first State Visit to Portugal, the President Droupadi Murmu delivered an address at the Lisbon City Council, expressing her delight at arriving in the Portuguese capital.

'I am truly delighted to be in the beautiful city of Lisbon, nestled among seven hills and embraced by the Tagus River,' she said, calling it a special moment in her journey.

Extending her gratitude to the city for the warm reception, she stated, 'I extend my heartfelt thanks to His Excellency the Mayor of Lisbon and to the people of the city for welcoming me as one of your own--by making me a Lisboeta--and for honouring me so graciously.' Her remarks underscored the cultural warmth and hospitality extended by Lisbon's leadership and citizens.

The President reflected on the historical and cultural bonds shared by India and Portugal, describing them as 'deep-rooted and historic.' She said, 'The cultural connections between India and Portugal date back centuries and have left an indelible imprint on our everyday lives.' She highlighted that the legacy of architecture, historic churches, culinary influences, shared vocabulary, and even Portuguese street names in India stand as living symbols of that shared past. On the other side, she pointed to 'the widespread popularity of Indian art, culture, cuisine, Yoga, and Ayurveda' in Portugal as evidence of the enduring mutual interest.

Recalling a significant milestone in the Indo-Portuguese relationship, she noted, 'In 1982, the then Mayor of Lisbon made land available to enable the establishment of the Radha Krishna Temple.'

That temple, she said, has since become 'a cornerstone of the Indian community's social and cultural life,' and went on to serve as 'Lisbon's largest COVID vaccination centre' and now 'functions as a government centre for the regularisation of immigrants.'

She also acknowledged the role of the Indian diaspora in Portugal. 'The Indian diaspora, or the Indo-Portuguese community, forms a vital link in our enduring cultural relationship. They are truly the foundation of our ties, making valuable contributions to Portuguese society and its economy,' she said. With Indian citizens representing the fourth largest immigrant community in Portugal, mostly in Lisbon, she emphasised their significance in bilateral relations.

Speaking on international cooperation, she noted, 'The historic ties between India and Portugal have evolved into a multidimensional and dynamic partnership.' She affirmed that 'Portugal has played a key role in advancing India's engagement with the European Union and Lusophone countries.'

Looking ahead, the President reaffirmed India's national ambitions and global vision. 'India is working to transform itself into a developed nation by 2047--into a prosperous, inclusive, and advanced society guided by a human-centric approach,' she said. 'We continue to believe in Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam - 'the world is one family'--and will keep contributing towards a prosperous future for the world.' She added, 'In these efforts, we see Portugal as a trusted friend and partner.'

She praised Lisbon as 'a global city, at the forefront of technological transformation, innovation, digital public infrastructure, and digital transition,' and noted its role as host to the 'world's largest international technology conference, the Web Summit.' She saw these as 'areas where India and Portugal can deepen cooperation.'

Concluding her remarks, the President acknowledged the milestone year for both nations: 'This year, India and Portugal are celebrating the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic relations.' Confident in the path ahead, she said, 'I am confident that our historic partnership is firmly progressing toward becoming a vibrant and multifaceted collaboration.' (ANI)