2017Joint Issue Portugal - Israel - 40 Years of Friendship - First Day Cover

Diplomatic relations between the State of Israel and the Portuguese Republic have developed gradually over many years. A Consulate of Israel opened in Lisbon in the late 1950s, becoming upgraded to a Consulate General after the “Carnation Revolution” in April 1974. In 1977, it became an embassy, thus achieving the highest level of full diplomatic relations. Since then, the two countries have maintained and encouraged friendly relations and cooperation in a wide range of areas such as technology and innovation, scienti c research, maritime research, agriculture and water management, energy and cyberspace, among many others. We have also witnessed the ourishing of tourism and cultural exchanges that stimulate knowledge and closer relations between both nations.