Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Harry Theoharis paid a visit to Portugal from 31 May to 1 June 2026, where he participated as a speaker at the 3rd Global Conference of the Global Wine Tourism Organization (GWTO), held in the city of Beja, and conducted a series of bilateral meetings in Lisbon aimed at further strengthening Greek-Portuguese relations.
During his participation in the conference, Mr. Theoharis highlighted the strategic importance of wine tourism as a tool for sustainable regional development, support for local economies, and promotion of countries’ cultural identity. He also underscored Greece’s significant potential in the field of thematic and experiential tourism, as well as the opportunities arising from international cooperation and the exchange of best practices.
As part of his visit to Lisbon, the Deputy Minister met with Portugal’s Secretary of State for the Economy, João Rui Ferreira, and the Secretary of State for European Affairs, Inês Domingos.
During the meetings, the two sides reaffirmed the excellent bilateral relations between Greece and Portugal, as well as their shared commitment to further deepening cooperation in the fields of economy, trade, investment, energy, shipping, tourism, and the green and digital transition.
Particular emphasis was placed on prospects for cooperation in strategic sectors such as renewable energy sources, infrastructure, innovation, water resources management, and the blue economy. The two sides also explored opportunities for fostering synergies between Greek and Portuguese businesses and enhancing their joint presence in third markets, particularly in Africa and Latin America.
The discussions further included an exchange of views on current European and international economic developments, challenges related to economic security and the resilience of supply chains, as well as issues concerning European trade policy and competitiveness.
Mr. Theoharis stressed the importance of close cooperation among EU Member States in strengthening the cohesion, competitiveness, and strategic autonomy of the European economy, particularly in an environment marked by heightened geopolitical and economic challenges.
The visit confirmed the excellent level of relations between Greece and Portugal and highlighted the considerable potential for further cooperation in areas of mutual interest, with a view to promoting sustainable development, innovation, and enhanced European competitiveness.
June 3, 2026