Spain and Portugal have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening their bilateral relationship through a wide-ranging agenda that addresses key areas of mutual interest. In a meeting held in Madrid, Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares and Portuguese Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel marked the first high-level discussion since the formation of the new Portuguese government, underscoring the robust ties between the two neighbouring countries.
During their meeting, the ministers agreed to collaborate closely in preparation for the upcoming 35th Bilateral Summit, scheduled for October. This summit, a cornerstone of Spanish-Portuguese relations, will focus on advancing joint projects and furthering cooperation across various sectors. Among the key initiatives discussed were infrastructural projects aimed at enhancing connectivity between the two nations. These include the construction of a bridge over the Sever River, linking Cedillo in Spain’s Cáceres province with Nisa in Portugal’s Alentejo region, as well as the development of high-speed rail and road connections. Additionally, the ministers highlighted two significant energy interconnection projects: the electricity link between Fontefría in Spain’s Ourense province and Vila Fría in northern Portugal, and the broader connection of the Iberian Market with the European Union via France.
Albares and Rangel also addressed pressing international issues, including the situation in the Middle East. Both ministers called for an immediate ceasefire, the unconditional release of hostages, and the opening of new border crossings to facilitate humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip. Spain has urged Portugal to continue supporting the international peace conference aimed at advancing the two-state solution, an initiative already backed by over 80 countries, including all 27 EU member states. In addition to their Middle East concerns, the ministers reiterated their commitment to supporting Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression. They expressed concern over the growing Russian influence in Africa, which has led to increased instability in regions like Mozambique and the Sahel. Portugal, which is leading the European military assistance mission in Mozambique, and Spain, recognized the need for new security cooperation strategies in these volatile areas.
The meeting also provided an opportunity to strengthen cultural ties. As Spain commemorates the 50th anniversary of Portugal’s Carnation Revolution, the two nations reflected on their shared history. Spain’s Council of Ministers declassified three key telegrams from 1974, offering insights into the Franco regime’s response to the peaceful end of dictatorship in Portugal. Looking ahead, Spain and Portugal are preparing to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup, alongside Morocco, an event expected to further solidify their cultural and diplomatic relationship. The ministers emphasized the importance of this collaboration as a testament to the enduring partnership between the two Iberian countries. With a shared commitment to advancing their bilateral agenda, Spain and Portugal are poised to continue their close cooperation, addressing both regional challenges and broader global issues.
