President Seguro Calls for CPLP Action on Oceans and UN Status
Portuguese President António José Seguro has called for a “frank discussion” among member states of the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP) to address internal challenges and forge a united front on global issues, particularly ocean conservation.
A Vision for the Oceans and the UN
Speaking at a colloquium celebrating the 30th anniversary of the CPLP at Lisbon’s Belém Cultural Center, the President emphasized the need for “strong and joint action” regarding the oceans. He framed maritime cooperation as a strategic pillar for the future of the Lusophone community.
Beyond environmental and economic cooperation, Seguro reiterated a long-standing diplomatic ambition: elevating Portuguese to an official language of the United Nations. He urged member states to intensify their promotion of the language both within their borders and on the global stage to reflect its growing international influence.
Strengthening the Lusophone Bond
The President described the Lusophone space as a “priority of Portuguese foreign policy,” noting that his first international visits after his inauguration were to the CPLP headquarters and to Cape Verde. He offered a positive assessment of the organization’s three-decade history, citing the expansion of member states, a growing list of international observers, and the increasing weight of the “Lusophone voice” in global affairs.
“Together we are stronger,” Seguro declared, pointing to the successful cooperation developed across nearly all sectors of public administration and civil society.
Navigating Political Instability
The call for a “frank discussion” comes at a delicate time for the organization. Guinea-Bissau remains suspended following a military coup last November, with Timor-Leste currently holding the community’s rotating presidency.
President Seguro highlighted several key priorities for the community’s next chapter:
- Promoting Democracy: Reinforcing the values and principles that underpin the CPLP.
- Engaging Youth: Creating a closer connection with younger generations to ensure the organization’s longevity.
- Global Stability: Positioning the CPLP as a force for dialogue and peace in an increasingly volatile world.
By addressing these challenges head-on, Seguro argued that the CPLP can transition from a cultural and linguistic alliance into a more robust political and strategic bloc on the international stage.
Image: Pexels – Reinaldo Simoes
