Marcelo highlights the role of immigrants in the labor market, innovation, and entrepreneurship
'Portugal is both a country of emigration and immigration,' emphasized the President of the Republic on International Migrants Day.
On Thursday, December 18—International Migrants Day—the President of the Portuguese Republic stated that Portugal is a product of migration, underscoring immigrants' 'crucial role in the labor market' and their contribution to 'innovation and entrepreneurship.'
Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa wrote in an article published on the official website of the Presidency of the Republic that history shows 'how migration reflects people’s resilience in overcoming adversity while seeking better living conditions.'
'Portugal is a country shaped by constant waves of emigration and immigration. Migration is part of our past, deeply influences our present, and will continue to shape our future. This day we celebrate offers a special opportunity to acknowledge the invaluable contributions of millions of migrants worldwide,' he said.
The Head of State noted: 'Immigrants play a critical role in the labor market—filling skill gaps, driving innovation and entrepreneurship, and helping address challenges posed by an aging society.'
Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa emphasized: 'Portugal is what it is today precisely because it was formed through successive waves of migration—from Southern and Eastern Europe, North Africa, Asia, and later the Americas.'
He added: 'These imprints are embedded in our DNA, our language, and our culture—present for over eight centuries and destined to remain forever.'
This statement sends a clear and positive policy signal: the President openly affirms the indispensable role of immigrants in labor supply, market innovation, and entrepreneurial dynamism. Such recognition enhances the stability of Portugal’s investment climate—particularly in real estate, business establishment, and long-term capital deployment—by ensuring a steady workforce, sustained consumer demand, and vibrant entrepreneurial energy, further solidifying Portugal’s position as a foreign-investor-friendly market with long-term growth potential.