MoS for External Affairs signs agreement on labour mobility in Portugal

Minister of State for External Affairs Meenakashi Lekhi during her Portugal's visit signed an agreement on labour mobility, facilitating recruitment of Indian citizens to work. During her three-day visit to the European country, she had an in-depth review of the bilateral relations with her counterpart, Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs and Co-operation, Mr Francisco Andre.

This was followed by the signing of the milestone Bilateral Agreement on the Recruitment of Indian Citizens to Work in Portugal.

Portugal is the first European country with which India has signed a dedicated agreement on labour mobility. This is also the first such agreement signed by Portugal outside the EU. The agreement sets out the



procedures for recruitment of Indian workers and professionals in Portugal and will open up new employment opportunities for Indians further strengthening the socio-economic linkages between the two countries.

In her meeting with Minister of Culture of Portugal Dr. Graca Fonseca, Mrs Lekhi explored avenues of cooperation in the field of culture such as exchange of youth and literary delegations, establishment of Maritime Heritage Gallery at Lothal.

During the visit, the Minister of State also interacted with the Indian diaspora and participated in the Azadi ka Amrut Mahotsav celebrations marking the rich cultural heritage of India organised by the Embassy of India in Lisbon.