Charles III refers to nations collaborating over environmental issues
The British king, Charles III, has sent a letter to President Marcelo marking Portugal Day today, and expressing hope that the two nations will collaborate over climate change and environmental issues.
The full text has been uploaded onto the website of the British embassy in Lisbon.
It reads: “Dear Mr President, My wife and I are delighted to send Your Excellency and the people of Portugal our warmest congratulations on the auspicious occasion of your National Day.
“I am so pleased that our countries share such strong ties, and I look forward to strengthening further our friendship.
“It is my hope and strong ambition that our nations can collaborate to make a positive impact on climate change and environmental issues, which affect us all globally.
“My wife and I have great pleasure in conveying our best wishes to you and to all Portuguese in the year ahead.
“Charles R.”
The letter, reproduced as it was received with the royal crest at the top, has received a mixed response by the embassy’s Facebook followers.
Lusa meantime has reported that the United States has also weighed in on the national holiday, but more to chivvy Portugal along when it comes to defence spending.
“On behalf of the United States, I congratulate the Portuguese people on the celebration of Portugal Day, Camões Day and Portuguese Communities Day,” US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in a statement.
“As a committed NATO ally, Portugal plays an important role in strengthening transatlantic security. We count on Portugal and all NATO allies to increase their commitment to defence spending to 5% of GDP,” he went on, describing the commitment as “an essential cornerstone” of joint deterrence.
“Sharing responsibilities strengthens the Atlantic Alliance, consolidates peace through strength and ensures that we are prepared to face current threats together.”
Rubio equally expressed his willingness to ‘continue working together to deepen bilateral cooperation on economic and defence issues, as well as to increase trade and investment and combat both illegal immigration and organised crime’.
“These efforts promote our common security and prosperity, helping to protect the sovereignty and security of our citizens. With more than 1.3 million Portuguese Americans contributing to all sectors of life in the United States, this is a partnership based not only on strategic alignment, but also on a human connection. Together, we will continue to build a secure and prosperous future for the coming generations of our nations,” he concluded.
