Canada has taken another step toward strengthening its global partnerships—this time with Portugal, a trusted ally and valued economic partner. On September 16, 2025, in Lisbon, Canadian and Portuguese officials signed a landmark General Security of Information Agreement (GSOIA) that promises to bolster defence cooperation, expand market opportunities, and reinforce shared commitments to democracy and prosperity.

The signing was formally carried out by Ambassador Élise Racicot on behalf of Canada and Helena Malcata, Director-General for Foreign Policy at Portugal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Backing the event were the Honourable Joël Lightbound, Minister of Government Transformation, Public Works and Procurement, and the Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Foreign Affairs, who hailed the agreement as a new chapter in Canada’s long-standing relationship with Portugal.

“Modernizing Canada’s procurement practices is essential to ensuring transparency and strengthening our security. This agreement with Portugal will not only protect the exchange of sensitive information with a trusted NATO ally, it will also open new opportunities for Canadian businesses, support good jobs, and help grow our economies. By working together, Canada and Portugal are strengthening both our security and economic strength,” voiced the Honourable Joël Lightbound, Minister of Government Transformation, Public Works and Procurement.

A Partnership Built on Shared Values

Canada and Portugal’s diplomatic relationship runs deep, rooted in shared democratic values, people-to-people ties, and a common commitment to multilateral cooperation. Both countries are staunch defenders of human rights and the rules-based international order, working together to craft effective responses to pressing global challenges.

This foundation extends beyond diplomacy. Portugal has emerged as a significant economic partner for Canada, with bilateral merchandise trade exceeding $3.2 billion in 2024. The new GSOIA builds on that relationship, intertwining security and prosperity in ways that will directly benefit Canadian businesses and citizens.

“Shared values, mutual respect and a strong commitment to democracy underpin Canada’s ties with Portugal. In today’s rapidly changing global context, this agreement demonstrates Canada’s commitment to advancing defence and security cooperation with European allies, and strengthening commercial ties for the benefit of citizens on both continents,” offered the Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Foreign Affairs.

What the Agreement Delivers

Once in force, the GSOIA will serve as a legally binding framework for the secure exchange of classified information between the two allies. It goes beyond government-to-government ties, creating opportunities for Canadian industries and contractors to access Portugal’s specialized workforce, defence markets, and advanced technologies.

The agreement specifically:

  • Strengthens cooperation between Canada and Portugal as NATO allies, including operations, equipment sharing, and collaboration on shared Atlantic priorities.
  • Expands Canadian companies’ access to contracts in Portugal, enhancing global competitiveness.
  • Opens doors to Portugal’s specialized workforce and classified technologies, particularly in defence.
  • Establishes clear protocols for the exchange of classified defence intelligence, technical data, and sensitive operational information.

In effect, the GSOIA creates a security umbrella that supports defence collaboration while also enabling Canadian businesses to compete and grow in a competitive international market.

“Canada is furthering its cooperation with like-minded partners to create new opportunities for our defense industry and Canadian workers. Our agreement with Portugal, a strong NATO ally, will enhance defense intelligence and sensitive information exchanges, while opening new doors for businesses in both countries,” expressed the Honourable Stephen Fuhr, Secretary of State, Defence Procurement.

A Strategic Win for Canadians

For Canada, this agreement represents more than a defence measure—it’s a strategic tool for economic opportunity and innovation. By working with Portugal, Canada can ensure its industries remain globally competitive while reinforcing its credibility as a reliable ally in NATO and beyond.

In today’s rapidly shifting global environment, agreements like this underscore Canada’s commitment to building resilient partnerships that deliver security, innovation, and prosperity. With Portugal at its side, Canada is better positioned to safeguard sensitive information, pursue new markets, and strengthen its role on the world stage.