Portugal Strengthens Ties with U.S. Through New Defense Partnership Program

Portugal Joins U.S. National Guard Bureau's State Partnership Program

LISBON - Portugal has officially joined the United States’ State Partnership Program (SPP), a move aimed at enhancing military cooperation and addressing mutual security challenges. This partnership, established on January 14 at the Ministry of National Defense in Lisbon, marks a significant milestone in U.S.-Portugal relations.

Portuguese Defense Minister Nuno Melo emphasized that this collaboration is set to strengthen bilateral relations and improve military cooperation between the two nations. He stated, “I have no doubt this partnership will strengthen military cooperation between our two countries, intensify what are already excellent bilateral relations and the strong diplomatic, commercial and cultural ties that unite Portugal and the United States.”

The SPP, created in 1993, has successfully built relations for over 30 years, now encompassing 105 partnerships with 115 nations worldwide. The program enables military-to-military engagements and broader cooperation across various sectors including government, economic, and social spheres.

During the ceremony, US Ambassador to Portugal Randi Charno Levine highlighted the historic alliance between the two countries and emphasized the importance of their cooperation in safeguarding peace in the Euro-Atlantic area. She noted that the selection of Portugal into the SPP demonstrates the U.S. Government’s regard for the Portuguese Armed Forces.

Ambassador Levine also pointed out that Portugal’s strategic location and contributions to NATO missions underscore its vital role in the transatlantic alliance. The Lajes Air Base in the Azores was described as a significant symbol of this military cooperation, showcasing the U.S. government's ongoing investment in the region.