President Murmu honoured with Key to city Lisbon

President Droupadi Murmu was presented with the prestigious “Key of Honour” of Lisbon City in Portugal. The symbolic gesture, presented by Lisbon Mayor Carlos Moedas at the historic Câmara Municipal de Lisboa, officially recognised her as an honorary citizen of the city. The “Key to the City of Lisbon” is the highest honor bestowed by the city. President Murmu expressed her gratitude to the Mayor and the people of Lisbon for the distinguished award, praising their affectionate nature, open-mindedness, spirit of tolerance, and respect for diversity.

While addressing the ceremony yesterday, President Murmu said that Portugal has been a vital partner for India in strengthening its ties with both the European Union and Lusophone nations. She highlighted that Indians represent the fourth-largest community in Portugal, serving as a bridge between the two cultures and contributing significantly to the country’s economy. 

Reflecting on the long-standing cultural bonds between India and Portugal, she noted their profound and lasting influence on everyday life. The President also spoke of India’s vision, guided by the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, to build a “Viksit Bharat” by 2047, reaffirming India’s commitment to fostering a sustainable world, with Portugal seen as a reliable partner.

The ceremony was attended by prominent citizens of Lisbon, including members of the diplomatic corps



and representatives from both the Indian and Indo-Portuguese communities.

On the second and concluding day of her visit to Portugal today, President Murmu will meet Portuguese Prime Minister Luis Montenegro. She will also visit the Assembly of the Portuguese Republic, the Champalim Foundation, and the Radhakrishna Temple. Additionally, President Murmu will visit the Statue of Mahatma Gandhi at Alameda and pay floral tributes at the ‘Statue of Mahatma Gandhi and Kasturba Gandhi.’

Earlier yesterday, President Murmu held delegation-level talks with her Portuguese counterpart, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, in Lisbon. In a joint media address following their meeting, President Murmu described India-Portugal ties as historic, emphasizing that they are evolving into a modern and multi-dimensional partnership. Both countries agreed to enhance cooperation in trade and strengthen economic relations. They also decided to focus on areas such as renewable energy, green hydrogen, IT, startups, innovation, and skilled mobility.

President Murmu arrived in Lisbon yesterday for the first leg of her state visit to Portugal and Slovakia. Her visit coincides with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between India and Portugal. Tomorrow, President Murmu will embark on a two-day visit to Slovakia. It will be the first visit by an Indian President to Slovakia in 29 years