The new platform fulfils the commitment made at the 52nd Standing Bilateral Commission, held in Lisbon in January 2026. Its aim is to deepen economic relations between Portugal and the United States and strengthen cooperation in areas such as technology and digital platforms, energy and infrastructure, pharmaceuticals and healthcare, defence and aerospace.

The Minister of State and Foreign Affairs, Paulo Rangel, said that the forum “reflects our shared commitment to deepening economic and business ties”, strengthening transatlantic cooperation in a challenging international environment.

The Minister of Economy and Territorial Cohesion, Castro Almeida, stressed that Portugal aims to establish itself “as a hub for investment, innovation and value creation between Europe and the United States”, highlighting the forum’s role in fostering new partnerships between Portuguese and American companies.

Businesses to help set priorities

The private sector will play an active role in identifying priorities and opportunities for economic cooperation, drawing on the experience and market knowledge of participating companies. The forum’s recommendations will respect national and European legal frameworks, as well as each country’s regulatory powers and strategic interests.

The first edition of the Portugal–United States CEO Forum will take place in Lisbon on the sidelines of Web Summit.