Portugal’s Prime Minister Luís Montenegro held a phone call today with U.S. President Donald Trump, reaffirming Portugal’s commitment to strengthening the long-standing ties between the two nations.
During the conversation, both leaders discussed expanding cooperation across economic, political, and cultural areas, underscoring the shared values and strategic partnership that unite Portugal and the United States.
Prime Minister Montenegro has cited President Trump’s words of solidarity and condolences following the tragic Glória funicular accident in Lisbon on 4 September, which claimed 16 lives and left many injured.
“President Trump conveyed heartfelt support to the Portuguese people during this time of national mourning,” Prime Minister Montenegro said in a statement on social media. “We remain committed to advancing our bilateral relations while honoring the memory of those affected by this tragedy.”
On 4 September 2025, a car of Lisbon’s iconic Elevador da Glória derailed, killing 16 people and injuring 21, including residents and tourists. The Portuguese government has declared a day of national mourning and launched a full investigation.
The phone call comes as Prime Minister Montenegro continues his official visit to Asia, following meetings in Beijing with Chinese President Xi Jinping, where discussions focused on efforts to achieve peace in Ukraine and trade. Montenegro will continue to Japan later this week to further expand Portugal’s diplomatic and economic presence in the region.
Prime Minister Luís Montenegro, 52, who has led Portugal since March 2024, heads the center-right Social Democratic Party (PSD). Known for his pragmatic style and pro-European stance, he has focused on economic reform, strengthening Portugal’s international alliances, and addressing challenges from trade tensions to climate resilience, while also emphasizing close transatlantic ties with the United States.
Portugal and the United States maintain a close partnership, with deep historical, cultural, and strategic ties, including cooperation through NATO and vibrant Portuguese heritage communities throughout the country, most of them with roots in the Azores.
The states with the largest Portuguese populations are California (330,974), Massachusetts (279,722), Rhode Island (99,445), New Jersey (78,196), Florida (48,974), and Hawaii (48,527).
The highest percentages of Portuguese population are in Rhode Island (9.7%); Massachusetts (4.4%); Hawaii (4%); Connecticut (1.3%), New Hampshire (1.2%); California (1.1%); New Jersey (1.1%); Nevada (0.6%); and Florida (0.3%). Fall River (MA), with a total population of 95,072, remains the city with the highest proportion of ethnically Portuguese residents (43.9%) in the United States.
PAJ/Staff
