OJORNAL

Here’s what U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio had to say on the Day of Portugal

Lurdes C. da Silva
O Jornal
  • The U.S. congratulated Portugal on its national holiday and recognized its role in NATO.
  • Secretary of State Marco Rubio urged Portugal and other NATO allies to increase defense spending to 5% of GDP.
  • Rubio emphasized the importance of shared security and prosperity between the two nations.
  • The U.S. seeks to expand cooperation with Portugal on economic, defense, and security issues.

The United States congratulated Portugal on its national holiday, which is officially celebrated on June 10, and highlighted that Portugal, as an ally of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), “plays an important role in strengthening transatlantic security.”

“On behalf of the United States of America, I extend congratulations to the Portuguese people as you celebrate the Day of Portugal, Camões, and the Portuguese Communities,” said Secretary of State Marco Rubio in a prepared statement.

“As a committed NATO Ally, Portugal has an important role in advancing transatlantic security. We count on Portugal and all NATO Allies to increase their defense spending commitment to 5 percent of GDP,” he said.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio testifies in front of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations in Washington, D.C., on May 20, 2025.

For Rubio, this commitment “is an essential cornerstone” of U.S.-Portugal shared deterrence.

“Burden-sharing strengthens the Alliance, reinforces peace through strength, and ensures we are prepared to meet today’s threats together,” said the Secretary of State.

Rubio expressed his willingness to continue working together to expand bilateral cooperation on economic and defense issues, as well as to increase trade and investment and combat both illegal immigration and organized crime.

“These efforts advance our shared security and prosperity, which help protect the sovereignty and safety of our citizens,” he said. “With more than 1.3 million Portuguese Americans contributing to every sector of American life, this is a partnership grounded not only in strategic alignment, but in human connection. Together, we will keep building a secure and prosperous future for our nations’ future generations.”