Mr Prime Minister,
Your Eminence, the Cardinal Patriarch,
Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,

The new Concordat has just been signed. It confirms the reciprocal sentiments of respect that mark the relations between the Holy See and Portugal. I offer a warm welcome to Your Excellency, Mr Durão Barroso, to the members of the official delegation and to the Portuguese Ambassador to the Holy See. I also greet Cardinal José Policarpo, the Apostolic Nuncio and the members of the Bishops' Conference who are taking part in this solemn ceremony.

I express my deep appreciation for the attention to the Church's mission that the Government and the Assembly of the Portuguese Republic have shown, and which has culminated in the signing of this document today. I also hope that the new Concordat will encourage ever better understanding between the State Authorities and the Pastors of the Church for the common good of the Nation. With these sentiments and wishes, I invoke the Blessing of Almighty God upon you, your families and your People.

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