During his speech at the International Entrepreneurship and Innovation Fair and Contest held by RIAL – International Academic Network of Lusophony in Santarém, the former leader of the PSD argued that the more investment directed towards Africa, the greater Portugal’s influence within the European Union.
“Our influence in the European Union is not just about our territory. We can be an open gateway for the EU into Africa, which enhances Portugal’s prestige,” he stated.
Luís Marques Mendes expressed regret that Lusophony remains “a poor relative in Portuguese foreign policy” and called for stronger cooperation among CPLP countries, viewing it as “one of the four fundamental pillars” of the country’s international engagement, alongside Europe, the transatlantic relationship, and Portuguese communities.
Mendes emphasized the need to invest more in the Portuguese language, culture, and teacher training, as well as to implement the CPLP mobility agreement signed in 2021.
“Portugal will need immigrants. If they come from Lusophone countries, integration will be easier,” he remarked.
The presidential candidate warned that Portugal is investing “too little in Lusophony,” particularly in strengthening the Portuguese language, which he described as “the most indestructible bond” between Portugal and the countries celebrating 50 years of independence this year.
Despite the criticisms, he expressed optimism for the future:
“We are on that path, and I believe there will be more investment in this area. It is beneficial for Portugal, for Portuguese-speaking African countries, and for Brazil. We are the eighth most spoken language in the world,” he concluded.
