The Governments of the United States of America and Portugal released a joint statement on May 15, 2024, detailing the outcomes of the 51st U.S.-Portugal Standing Bilateral Commission (SBC) meeting. The session, held in Washington on May 14, focused on strengthening the bilateral relationship and security partnership in light of NATO's 75th anniversary.
The SBC highlighted Portugal's contributions as a founding member of NATO, including its recent involvement in the Baltic Air Policing mission and activities in Romania. The commission also emphasized efforts to integrate the Women, Peace and Security agenda across NATO tasks and promote gender equality.
The United States and Portugal reaffirmed their shared commitment to democratic principles and human rights as Portugal marks 50 years since the Carnation Revolution. Both nations expressed intent to bolster their transatlantic partnership, welcoming increased private-sector investments and the implementation of a treaty visa program for eligible Portuguese nationals.
Critical infrastructure and energy sector issues were discussed with an emphasis on shared security and economic competitiveness. The SBC urged continued cooperation bilaterally and in third markets under the G7 Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment as well as the EU’s Global Gateway. Portugal's potential membership in the Blue Dot Network was welcomed.
On Atlantic and scientific cooperation, both countries' roles as co-chairs of the Partnership for Atlantic Cooperation’s platform for Science Capacity Building were highlighted. The delegations welcomed new U.S. funds supporting Atlantic Partnership activities such as ocean observation, marine spatial planning, scientific capacity building, among others.
The delegations applauded progress on Memorandums of Understanding related to cancer research in Lusophone Africa and sustainable development initiatives between U.S. Agency for International Development and Portugal’s Camões Institute.
Views were exchanged on enduring support for Ukraine against Russia’s aggression. Both nations remain unwavering in their political, financial, humanitarian, and military support to Ukraine.
On Middle East issues, de-escalation of tensions and the establishment of a path toward peace were underscored. The commission also discussed the importance of protecting freedom of navigation and international commerce in critical waterways.
Views were also exchanged on the Indo-Pacific region, reaffirming commitment to uphold international law in face of challenges, including developments in the East and South China Seas.
The SBC emphasized multilateral and international cooperation as essential tools to address global challenges. Portugal's role as observer to the 2024 G20 in Brazil was welcomed, with discussions held on supporting Brazil’s G20 priorities.
Portugal expressed its intent to endorse the Framework to Counter Foreign State Information Manipulation. Both nations intend to collaborate on capacity development efforts with emerging partners.
The SBC received reports from recent Technical Commission and Labor Committee meetings, welcoming progress toward fair wages assurance. A potential joint demolition training exercise between Portuguese and U.S. forces was discussed.
The SBC plans to meet again in the second half of 2024 to follow up on these initiatives.
