Portuguese Prime Minister Luís Montenegro began his three-day visit to the United States today. The visit aims to strengthen economic and commercial ties between Portugal and the US. Montenegro's program for the day includes a visit to the New York Stock Exchange, where he will participate in the traditional "closing bell" ceremony. This event recognizes Portugal's economic and financial trajectory, including its growth and fiscal responsibility.
The Prime Minister's visit to the New York Stock Exchange is significant, as it highlights Portugal's growing importance as a commercial partner for the US. In 2025, the US was Portugal's fourth-largest customer in terms of merchandise trade, with a 5.8% share of national exports, valued at €4.6 billion. The US was also Portugal's tenth-largest supplier, accounting for 2.1% of imports, valued at €2.4 billion.
During his visit to the New York Stock Exchange, Montenegro will be the guest of honor at the "closing bell" ceremony, where he will ring the bell to mark the end of the trading session. This event provides an opportunity for Portugal to promote itself to investors in one of the world's most dynamic capital markets. The Prime Minister's presence also underscores Portugal's openness to US investment and its relevance as a partner in strategic sectors.
The Prime Minister's program also includes the inauguration of a Portuguese filigree jewelry store in Times Square. Later in the day, he will attend a reception hosted by US President Donald Trump for world leaders participating in the 81st United Nations General Assembly. This reception brings together leaders from around the world to discuss pressing global issues.
Over the next two days, Montenegro will participate in the 81st United Nations General Assembly, where he will deliver a speech on Thursday. The theme of this year's session is "Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation." As Portugal prepares to take its seat as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council in January, Montenegro's participation in the Assembly is an important opportunity for Portugal to engage with the international community.
During his visit, Montenegro will also meet with UN Secretary-General António Guterres on Wednesday morning. This meeting provides a chance for the two leaders to discuss global issues and Portugal's priorities for its upcoming term on the UN Security Council. The Prime Minister's visit to the US is an important step in strengthening Portugal's relationships with the US and the international community.
The visit is also notable for its historical context, as former Portuguese leaders have participated in similar ceremonies at the New York Stock Exchange. In 2007, José Manuel Barroso, then President of the European Commission, participated in the closing bell ceremony, while Aníbal Cavaco Silva, former President of Portugal, rang the opening bell in 2008.
Key points
- The Prime Minister's visit aims to strengthen economic and commercial ties between Portugal and the US.
- Montenegro will participate in the 81st United Nations General Assembly, where he will deliver a speech on Thursday.
- The visit includes a meeting with UN Secretary-General António Guterres on Wednesday morning.
