Italy and Portugal have a long history of relations given the proximity between both nations. Under the Iberian Union from 1580 to 1640, Portugal and the Kingdom of Naples, Kingdom of Sicily, and the Duchy of Milan were all administered by Madrid, Spain. Between 1680 and 1682, there was direct trade between Portugal and the Duchy of Savoy.[1]
In September 1911, Italy recognized the First Portuguese Republic and in May 1918, Italy recognized the government of Portuguese President Sidónio Pais.[1] In 1946, the last Italian King, Umberto II of Italy, fled to Portugal where he remained for 37 years.
During World War I, Portugal remained neutral, however, in 1916 it became an associated member to the allied forces (which included Italy). During World War II, Portugal remained neutral throughout the war.
Political relations between Italy and Portugal remain close. Both nations are members of the European Union and work closely together on numerous issues.
Bilateral agreements
Both nations have signed a few bilateral agreements such as a Treaty for Trade and Navigation (1872); Agreement for Cultural and Scientific Cooperation (1977); Agreement to Avoid Double Taxation and Prevent Tax Evasion in the Field of Income Taxes (1980); Security Agreement (2007); and an Agreement on Mutual Protection of Classified Information (2007).[1][3]
