Cape Verde President to Receive University of Coimbra Medal
President José Maria Neves of Cape Verde begins a four-day official visit to Portugal this Monday, highlighted by a prestigious honor from one of the world’s oldest academic institutions. The Cape Verdean leader will receive the University of Coimbra Medal, a rare distinction recognizing his pivotal role in the democratic and economic evolution of his country.
A Rare Academic Honor
The Senate of the University of Coimbra unanimously approved the award in October 2025, citing Neves’s leadership in consolidating democracy and driving socio-economic transformation throughout Cape Verde’s history. The medal will be presented at the Colégio da Trindade following a keynote lecture by the President titled “Creoleness and the Future of Humanity,” delivered as part of the 44th edition of the “Lusophony House Talks.”
Before the academic ceremony, President Neves is scheduled to meet with the Mayor of Coimbra, Ana Abrunhosa.
Diplomacy and Infrastructure in Figueira da Foz
On Tuesday, the President will travel to Figueira da Foz for a meeting with Mayor Pedro Santana Lopes. His itinerary includes tours of the Port of Figueira da Foz, the Bandeira Viewpoint, and the city’s Arts and Performing Arts Center, highlighting the maritime and cultural links between the two nations.
Celebrating Independence in Lisbon
The diplomatic mission shifts to the capital on Wednesday, where President Neves will award the first-class Medal of Merit to Manuel de Almeida Damásio, president of the Cooperative for Training and Cultural Animation (COFAC).
The visit will culminate on Thursday at the Cape Verde Cultural Center in Lisbon with celebrations marking the 51st anniversary of Cape Verde’s independence. The program features the inauguration of “National Pride: The Teams that Take Cape Verde to the World,” an exhibition celebrating the achievements and global impact of the Cape Verdean national football team.
Image: Pexels – Carlos Machado
