The closing remarks of King Felipe VI of Spain and President Sergio Mattarella of Italy were directed at the Portuguese head of state during the 18th Cotec Europa Summit, held at the Convent of São Francisco in Coimbra. This event marked the final annual meeting to include Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa.
“In this last meeting with President Rebelo de Sousa, I would like to thank him for these years of collaboration, for his readiness to help, unwavering support, positive attitude, and valuable advice that, like those of President Mattarella, I highly regard,” expressed the Spanish monarch.
“It has been a true honor to share not only these Cotec Europa forums but also many other moments over the years,” Felipe VI added, delivering this section of his speech in Portuguese.
Previously, the Italian President addressed Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, acknowledging “his determination to represent the values of democracy and dialogue among countries, and his tireless commitment to the common project of European integration.”
The Cotec Europa meetings bring together members of the Cotec business associations from Spain, Italy, and Portugal, rotating annually between these three countries. The recent gatherings have seen the presence of Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, Felipe VI, and Sergio Mattarella.
This summit is likely the last involving Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, who is approaching the end of his second and final term in office.
The 18th Cotec Europa Summit commenced on Tuesday and concludes today, coinciding with the official campaign period for Sunday’s snap legislative elections in Portugal.
Prior to the speeches by the three heads of state, former European Central Bank President and former Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi delivered an address focusing on innovation and competitiveness.
On Tuesday, the Portuguese head of state presided over a ceremony where honorary doctorates were conferred upon the King of Spain and the President of Italy by the University of Coimbra.
