Portuguese President Urges CPLP to Defend Democracy
Portuguese President António José Seguro has reaffirmed his country’s “unwavering commitment” to the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP), warning that the organization must not “lose its way” amid a turbulent global landscape.
During a high-profile visit to the CPLP headquarters in Lisbon, the Head of State emphasized that the nine-nation bloc must remain anchored to its founding principles of democracy and human rights. His remarks come at a sensitive time for the organization, as Guinea-Bissau remains suspended following a military coup last November, and internal debates persist over the role of newer members like Equatorial Guinea.
Defending Values in a Polarized World
In a speech later released by the Presidency, Seguro described the current international climate as increasingly polarized, with fundamental global orders under threat. “In times of instability and uncertainty, it is important to remember where we started,” the President urged. He reminded member states that the CPLP was built on the “perennial values of peace, democracy, the rule of law, and social justice.”
The President argued that the strength of the Lusophone community lies in its collective ability to project these values both internally and on the world stage. “We must never forget the power we have together to defend these principles beyond our borders,” he said.
A Vision for the Future
As the CPLP approaches its 30th anniversary, Seguro called for a period of deep reflection regarding its future, specifically points to a “New Strategic Vision” for the post-2026 horizon. He highlighted several key priorities to ensure the organization remains relevant to its 300 million citizens:
- Youth Engagement: Making youth a “transversal dimension” of cooperation.
- Environmental Leadership: Positioning the CPLP as an international reference for sustainable ocean management.
- Diplomatic Influence: Strengthening the bloc’s political-diplomatic coordination.
Portugal as a Voice for the Lusosphere at the UN
President Seguro expressed gratitude for the CPLP’s unanimous support of Portugal’s successful bid for a seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2027-2028 biennium. He framed this upcoming tenure not just as a national achievement, but as a victory for the entire community.
“We do not represent only Portugal; we represent our community of countries and values,” Seguro declared. He pledged that Portugal would use its seat to amplify the aspirations of Lusophone nations and reiterated the long-standing ambition to elevate Portuguese to an official UN language.
The visit was attended by the CPLP Executive Secretary, Maria de Fátima Jardim, and Portugal’s Minister of State and Foreign Affairs, Paulo Rangel. The CPLP currently comprises Angola, Brazil, Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissau, Mozambique, Portugal, São Tomé and Príncipe, Timor-Leste, and Equatorial Guinea.
Image: Pexels – Max Avans
