Luís Montenegro was speaking at the ceremony marking the 40th anniversary of Portugal’s accession to the European Communities.

The Prime Minister admitted that the country “has not always taken full advantage” of opportunities over the past 40 years and pointed out other structural problems such as “demographic challenges, territorial asymmetries, housing challenges, economic competitiveness and income appreciation”.

“These are issues that require political courage, strategic vision and, above all, a renewed commitment to deepening and strengthening the European project”, he said.

However, he issued a special warning about populism and extremism, 51 years after April 25 and 40 years after joining the European space.

“One of the most serious challenges we face today is the growth of populism and extremism – a direct threat to the functioning of our democratic institutions and the cohesion of our societies”, he said.

Montenegro argued that, for the future, citizens demand “an open but secure Europe, which responds to the internal and external challenges of a world undergoing profound change”, with a new critique of demagogic projects.

“A united Europe, with no room for populism, extremism and demagogy that seeks to divide and exploit us. The celebration of these 40 years is a tribute to those who dreamed of this united Europe,” he said.