Prime Minister opens US visit at New York Stock Exchange
Portugal's economic weight in the United States takes centre stage today as Prime Minister Luís Montenegro rings the closing bell at the New York Stock Exchange. The ceremony, set for 15:00 local time (20:00 in Lisbon), marks the start of a three-day diplomatic mission that will shift focus to the United Nations General Assembly through Thursday.
The invitation from the exchange, according to the Prime Minister's office, recognises Portugal's credit rating upgrade to A+ by Fitch earlier this month — the country's highest rating in 15 years. The government says the moment will showcase Portugal's above-average growth within the Eurozone, budget surpluses, declining public debt and record employment levels to institutional investors.
Trade surplus nears €6 billion
The United States has become Portugal's fourth-largest export destination, accounting for 5.8% of all Portuguese goods sold abroad. In 2025, Portugal exported €4.6 billion in merchandise to the American market, while imports reached €2.4 billion — leaving a surplus of approximately €6 billion when services are included.
Tourism and travel represent more than half of all services exports to the US, having grown 8% in 2025. American direct investment in Portugal has also risen steadily, reaching €4.8 billion last year, an increase of 15.9% compared to 2024. The US now ranks as Portugal's seventh-largest foreign investor.
Portuguese companies have made what the government describes as "substantial investments" in the American market, particularly in energy and pharmaceuticals. EDP Renováveis plans to direct €7.5 billion to US projects between 2026 and 2028, focusing on solar, wind and energy storage. Hovione has invested $180 million to expand its pharmaceutical operations in New Jersey, more than doubling its spray-drying capacity.
Portuguese jewellery in Times Square
After the stock exchange ceremony, Montenegro will inaugurate a Portuguese filigree jewellery boutique in Times Square — a gesture his office says signals support for the international expansion of Portuguese businesses. The evening concludes with a reception hosted by US President Donald Trump for world leaders attending the UN General Assembly.
Meeting with Guterres on final term
Wednesday's agenda moves to UN headquarters. At 09:30, Montenegro meets with Secretary-General António Guterres in what will be the Portuguese diplomat's final General Assembly before his second term ends on 31 December. The Prime Minister intends to thank Guterres for his defence of the UN Charter and multilateralism, according to government sources.
The session takes on added weight as Portugal prepares to take its seat as a non-permanent member of the Security Council for the 2027–2028 term, beginning 1 January. Portugal won the seat with the highest vote count ever recorded for a Portuguese candidacy — elected on the first ballot.
Montenegro will also join the launch of the OceanEye Alliance, a European initiative to strengthen ocean observation and improve access to marine data. The event is co-chaired by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.
Later Wednesday, the Prime Minister participates in a UN Climate Action and Just Transition summit.
Address to the Assembly on Thursday
Montenegro's speech to the 193 member states is scheduled for Thursday afternoon, during the high-level segment of the 81st General Assembly. This year's theme — "Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation" — frames discussions as Guterres prepares to step down.
Portugal has served on the Security Council three times before: 1979–1980, 1997–1998 and 2011–2012. The country has won election every time it has stood for the body.
