National Defense Council Approves Adjustments, Reviews Defense Spending
The Superior Council of National Defense (CSDN) convened on Wednesday in Belém, presided over by President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, and unanimously approved adjustments to Portugal‘s “prominent national forces.” Details regarding the nature of these adjustments remain unspecified. A statement released by the Presidency of the Republic indicated the decision followed consideration of both military feasibility and financial viability.
The Council also reviewed the budget allocated for a national investment plan, specifically focusing on the commitment to dedicate 2% of Portugal’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to defense spending by the end of the current year – a pledge made at the NATO summit in June. The outcome of this budgetary analysis was not disclosed.
Further discussion centered on an ongoing review of the Armed Forces Military Statute, with the CSDN receiving an updated assessment of its progress.
In a unanimous show of support, Council members also formally expressed gratitude and recognition to the Armed Forces for their contributions to Portuguese society.
The meeting included participation from the Prime Minister, key Ministers of State (including National Defense, Foreign Affairs, Internal Affairs, and Finance), as well as ministers responsible for Industry, Energy, Transport and Communications. High-ranking military officials, including the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces and the heads of the army, Navy, and Air Force, were also present. Representatives from the Autonomous Regions of the Azores and Madeira, the National Defense Commission of the Assembly of the Republic, and additional parliamentary deputies completed the Council’s membership.