We Can Learn A Lot From Lisbon, We Have To!!!

THIS is my 7 th visit to Portugal, and never have I felt so nostalgic like this time, and seriously, I don’t even know why! But, I guess, after all the discussions about Portuguese Passport holders from Goa who have migrated all over the world, I decided to feel this country with a little more detail, to find out a little more of how this small country on the western most tip of Europe influenced us back home.

- Armando Gonsalves

I was pleasantly surprised when I got the chance of meeting up with the Portuguese Prime Minister, His Excellency Dr. Antonio Costa, who is of Goan descent (as everyone knows by now). The simplicity of the man quite stunned me, and he was delighted to receive the Indian best seller, “Karma Kurry”, a book that details the work done in the social and community field through the years, by yours truly. Dr. Costa talked of the rich ties between Portugal and Goa, and how Goa can be the bridge between India and Portugal, something that would be of great importance to both countries. He was presented with painting by noted Goan artist Vamona Navelkar. This painting was of the noted cultural icon of Portugal, Fernando Pessoa. When noted green activist and celebrated writer Avertino Miranda presented it to Dr. Antonio Costa, he was delighted.

The Goan Convention at Casa de Goa was ably managed by the President of the Club, Mr. Edgar Valles, a Portuguese national of Goan ancestry who was ably supported by a high power team. Goans from across the world participated at the convention, and they were treated to a fantastic day of discussions, presentations, great food and wine, camaraderie, brotherhood and all things good. And of course, the high point of the day was the meeting with Antonio Costa, and he did not let anyone down.