Portugal's FM to Visit China, First European Post-Sessions, Boosting Ties

Portugal's Foreign Minister to Visit China, Marking First European Visit After Two Sessions

Portugal's Minister of State and Foreign Affairs, Paulo Rangel, is set to embark on a visit to China starting Monday, marking the first European foreign minister to visit the country after the conclusion of the Two Sessions. This visit is expected to inject fresh momentum into China-Portugal relations and contribute to advancing China-EU ties, particularly amidst shifting transatlantic dynamics and Europe's ongoing economic challenges.

The visit comes at a significant time, marking the 20th anniversary of the China-Portugal comprehensive strategic partnership. During his visit, Rangel will hold the second China-Portugal strategic dialogue at the foreign ministers' level with his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi. This dialogue will be the first face-to-face interaction of its kind between the two countries, facilitating communication and coordination, and implementing the understandings reached by both leaders.

Experts believe that Rangel's visit holds particular significance as he is the first European foreign minister to visit China after this year's Two Sessions. This presents an opportunity to further discussions on cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative, particularly in sectors like agriculture, new energy, and green and digital transitions. Additionally, boosting tourism and exploring cooperation under the Maritime Silk Road are also expected to be key areas of discussion.

Beyond bilateral relations, Rangel's visit is also seen as a potential boost for China-EU relations. With Europe facing a volatile environment and reflecting on the limitations of "de-risking" policies, there is an opportunity for both sides to collaborate on addressing shared challenges and advancing cooperation.

Rangel's agenda includes meetings with high-ranking officials, including Liu Jianchao, head of the International Department of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, and Wang Yi. He will also attend the Boao Forum for Asia 2025 and hold a bilateral meeting with Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang. The final day of his trip will be spent in Macao and Hong Kong, where he will meet with representatives of Portuguese associations, educational institutions, and business leaders.