The President of the United States of America, Joe Biden, today congratulated Portugal for the “courageous spirit” with which it carried out the Carnation Revolution 50 years ago, which allowed the return of democracy.
“I congratulate the President and people of Portugal on the 50th anniversary of the return of democracy and celebrate the courageous spirit nurtured by the Carnation Revolution and the triumph over authoritarianism. This milestone underscores the enduring commitment to freedom and democracy shared by our countries,” writes Joe Biden in a letter sent to the President of the Republic, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa.
In the letter, released by the White House, the US President said that Portugal “was among the first countries to recognize the United States” after the revolution and recalled that the American founders “toasted the celebration of independence with Madeira wine”.
“The strong and long-lasting transatlantic ties between our countries, including the link in NATO, as allies, forms a basis of shared values and mutual respect that is only strengthened by 233 years of diplomatic relations,” he said.
Joe Biden also thanked Portugal for its “leadership” and “partnership with the US in the global promotion of democratic norms”.
“Together, we faced challenges and forged a resilient partnership that continues to flourish in the 21st century,” wrote the US president.
In the US, says Joe Biden, “the Portuguese diaspora has played a fundamental role in shaping the American culture and economy through language, music, cuisine and entrepreneurship”.
The President also emphasized that “Portuguese descendants in the US have made significant contributions to democracy” in their country in areas such as education, health, technology and also as members of Congress.
He also praised the work of Portuguese descendants in the US, “creating jobs, fueling innovation and contributing to the growth and vitality” of the country he presides over.
“As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the return of democracy to Portugal, we look forward to a future marked even more by strong ties and continued collaboration on our common values and shared commitment to the principles of democratic values,” said Joe Biden.
