Peru and Portugal expressed their readiness to work hand-in-hand to promote investment and trade opportunities, during the 5th Meeting of the Peru-Portugal Political Consultation Mechanism.
The gathering was presided over by Peru's Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Nestor Popolizio and Portugal's Secretary of State of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation Teresa Ribeiro.
The authorities underscored their countries' high level political dialogue based on common values and principles of the democratic system, human rights protection and respect for the rule of law.
They emphasized their commitment to free trade, investment promotion and innovation in science and technology, as true pillars of sustainable economic development.
In this sense, authorities expressed their willingness to work closely to promote, in both countries, investment and trade opportunities through the Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement and the
Multiparty Trade Agreement with the European Union (EU).
Ribeiro reiterated Portugal's support to Peru's efforts towards becoming a full member of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).
In the field of cooperation, they reaffirmed Peruvian and Portuguese public bodies' efforts to implement deals on health, education, science and technology,
tourism and culture, which provide a sound legal basis for reinforcing bilateral relations.
They also discussed the progress made in the negotiation of further instruments such as the Air Services Agreement —intended to boost business and tourism through direct flights operating the Lima-Lisbon route.
At the meeting, the officials decided to start negotiations on an extradition agreement and working holiday program, as well as to explore mechanisms for mutual consular assistance in countries, especially those without
diplomatic presence.
(END) FHG/RMB
Published: 6/15/2017