The President of the United States, Joe Biden, congratulated Portugal for the “courageous spirit” with which it carried out the Carnation Revolution 50 years ago, which allowed for the return of democracy.
In a letter addressed to the President of Portugal, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, released by the White House, President Biden praised the historic events that replaced the authoritarian regime established in 1933, and recalled that Portugal “was among the first countries to recognize the United States of America” after its revolution and that the American founders “toasted the celebration of independence with Madeira wine.”
“I congratulate the President and the people of Portugal on the 50th anniversary of the return of democracy and celebrate the courageous spirit that fueled the Carnation Revolution and the triumph over authoritarianism. This milestone underscores the enduring commitment to freedom and democracy that our nations share,” Joe Biden wrote.
“The strong and enduring transatlantic bonds between our nations, including our alliance in NATO, are built on a foundation of shared values and mutual respect that has only been strengthened by our 233 years of diplomatic relations,” President Biden stated.
Acknowledging Portugal’s leadership promoting global democracy President Biden also remarked, “Together, we have faced challenges and forged a resilient partnership that continues to flourish in the 21st century.”
President Biden also praised the Portuguese community in the United States and its role in shaping American culture, economy, and entrepreneurship by stressing how Portuguese Americans have made significant contributions to democracy in education, healthcare, technology, and as Members of Congress, concluding, “As we mark 50 years since the return of democracy to Portugal, we look forward to an even stronger future of close ties and continued collaboration on our shared values and commitment to democratic principles.”
Over 1.3 million individuals of Portuguese descent live in the United States, the majority with roots in the Azores. The states with the largest Portuguese populations are California; Massachusetts; Rhode Island; New Jersey; Florida, and Hawaii. It is estimated that over 30,000 US citizens live in Portugal.
Full text of the official letter
“Dear Mr. President:
I congratulate you and the people of Portugal on the 50th anniversary of its democracy, and celebrate the courageous spirit that fueled the Carnation Revolution and triumphed over authoritarianism . This milestone underscores the enduring commitment to freedom and democracy shared by both countries.
Portugal was among the first countries to recognize the United States after our revolution, and our forefathers toasted the Declaration of Independence with wine from Madeira. The vital and enduring transatlantic ties between our nations, including our bond as NATO Allies, forms a foundation of shared values and mutual respect that have strengthened over our 233 years of diplomatic relations.
We are grateful for Portugal’s leadership and partnership with the United States in promoting democratic norms globally. Together, we have faced challenges and forged a resilient partnership that continues to thrive in the 21st century.
Here in the United States, the Portuguese diaspora has played a pivotal role in shaping the cultural and economic landscape through language, music, cuisine, and entrepreneurship. Portuguese Americans have made meaningful contributions to our own democracy across a wide range of fields, from serving as Members of Congress to academia, healthcare and technology – creating jobs, fostering innovation, and contributing to our country’s growth and vitality.
As we celebrate Portugal’s 50 years since Portugal’s return to democracy, we look forward to a future marked by even stronger ties and continued collaboration based on our common values and shared commitment to democratic principles.
Sincerely,
Joe Biden”
Source: White House, Washington, DC
