Portugal signals deeper engagement with Sri Lanka

Minister of State and Foreign Af fairs of Portugal Paulo Range —Pic by Ruwan Walpola 

By Charumini de Silva 

During the two-day official visit to Sri Lanka, Minister of State and Foreign Affairs of Portugal Paulo Rangel in this exclusive interview with the Daily FT shared his thoughts on broadening ties beyond cultural affinity, outlining cooperation in ocean governance, multilateral diplomacy, renewable energy and education as the foundation for a more structured and future-focused bilateral relationship.

Below are excerpts of the interview:

Q: You met several Sri Lankan leaders during this visit. How do you view the current diplomatic ties between Sri Lanka and Portugal? Can relations be elevated structurally, especially in economics and investment?

A: There is enormous empathy and fraternity between our two peoples, rooted in a shared heritage. We also share concerns around maritime issues and climate change. However, there is tremendous scope to improve our relationship. This visit aims to open a new era in diplomatic ties. We are marking 75 years of diplomatic engagement and 50 years since the formal re-establishment of relations after a brief interruption. I have invited my Sri Lankan counterpart to Lisbon so we can define a new framework for cooperation.

Q: As a key European Union (EU) member with strengths in maritime affairs and renewable energy, where do you see realistic investment opportunities in Sri Lanka?

A: We discussed this extensively. The renewable energy sector offers major opportunities—especially solar and wind. Portugal already generates around 87% of its electricity from renewable sources, including hydro. Tourism is another strong area. Visitor numbers between our countries have grown in recent years. Sri Lanka’s natural diversity and historical links with Portugal create strong tourism appeal. Infrastructure and public works are also promising. Portuguese companies operate globally and are capable of undertaking large-scale projects. Finally, the digital sector is an emerging area where Portugal is investing heavily. I see four key domains for enhanced cooperation: renewables, tourism, infrastructure/public works, and digital development.

Q: How does Portugal assess Sri Lanka’s progress under the EU GSP+ framework, especially with a review due in 2027?

A: We recognise clear progress by Sri Lanka regarding GSP+ framework, and that must be welcomed. It is a strong basis for strengthening economic ties with the European Union. Naturally, further improvements in the EU GSP+ framework would help build additional confidence ahead of the 2027 review. Portugal will continue to advocate for constructive engagement.

Q:Sri Lanka sits at a strategic point in the Indian Ocean. How does Portugal, with its historic maritime identity, view emerging geopolitical competition in the region, and what role can smaller nations like Sri Lanka play in maintaining stability?

A: Small and medium-sized maritime States need a common strategy. First and foremost, we must defend multilateralism. Our voice is stronger collectively within international organisations. Portugal is seeking a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council and believes it can represent the interests of maritime nations, especially from the Global South. Second, we must prioritise the ocean’s agenda. Portugal co-hosted the UN Ocean Conference in Lisbon and has been active in advancing new ocean governance agreements like the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) treaty. Oceans are deeply connected to climate change as well, an issue both Sri Lanka and Portugal face directly. I come in solidarity with the Sri Lankan people who have demonstrated remarkable resilience in the face of the most recent devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah. Third, we must advance the blue economy. The sea is not just a geographical condition; it is an economic opportunity. This is an area where Sri Lanka and Portugal can cooperate closely.

Q: How can cultural, educational, tourism and people-to-people ties of the two countries be strengthened?

A: During this visit, we have decided to revive and activate the Joint Cultural Commission between our two countries. This platform will not only address culture, but also education, science, technology, research and innovation. Our shared history gives us a responsibility to create meaningful cooperation in diplomacy, economics, cultural ties and looking at our common future. It compels us to create a perspective of these very natural and genuine spontaneous friendships that exist for the next generation. But then that friendship must go beyond sentiment, it must have concrete substance.