History of Mexico–Portugal relations in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 24, 2026

Mexico and Portugal have maintained diplomatic relations since 1864, fostering cooperation through various international organizations like the Organization of Ibero-American States, OECD, and the UN. Their relationship is rooted in shared history and cultural ties, leading to collaboration on economic, political, and social fronts. While trade and investment might not be exceptionally high compared to other partners, both nations actively engage in cultural exchange and diplomatic dialogues, reinforcing their bilateral connection within the broader context of Ibero-American relations and global governance.

1918: Closure of Mexican diplomatic mission in Lisbon

In 1918, Portugal's refusal to recognize the government of Mexican President Venustiano Carranza led to the closure of Mexico's diplomatic mission in Lisbon.

1929: Restoration of Diplomatic Relations

In 1929, Mexico and Portugal restored diplomatic relations after a period of estrangement.

1959: Opening of Diplomatic Missions

In 1959, Mexico and Portugal opened diplomatic missions in each other's capitals, Lisbon and Mexico City, respectively, and these missions were elevated to the level of embassies.

1977: Agreement on Scientific and Cultural Cooperation

In 1977, Mexico and Portugal signed an Agreement on Scientific and Cultural Cooperation to foster collaboration in these fields.

1980: Agreement on Economic and Trade Cooperation

In 1980, Mexico and Portugal established an Agreement on Economic and Trade Cooperation to promote economic ties and trade relations.

January 1990: President Carlos Salinas de Gortari visits Portugal

In January 1990, President Carlos Salinas de Gortari became the first Mexican head of state to visit Portugal, marking a significant milestone in bilateral relations.

July 1991: Portuguese Prime Minister and President visit Mexico

In July 1991, Portuguese Prime Minister Aníbal Cavaco Silva and President Mario Soares visited Guadalajara, Mexico, to attend the first Ibero-American Summit.

1996: Agreement on Tourism

In 1996, Mexico and Portugal signed an Agreement on Tourism to encourage and facilitate tourism between the two countries.

1997: Mexico signs Free Trade Agreement with the European Union

In 1997, Mexico entered into a Free Trade Agreement with the European Union, of which Portugal is a member.

1998: Treaty of Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters and Extradition Treaty

In 1998, Mexico and Portugal formalized their legal cooperation by signing a Treaty of Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters and an Extradition Treaty.

1999: Agreement on the Avoidance of Double-Taxation and Fiscal Evasion and Agreement on the Promotion and Reciprocal Protection of Investments

In 1999, Mexico and Portugal signed an Agreement on the Avoidance of Double-Taxation and Fiscal Evasion, and an Agreement on the Promotion and Reciprocal Protection of Investments.

2000: Implementation of Free Trade Agreement

In 2000, the free trade agreement between Mexico and the European Union was implemented, leading to a significant increase in trade between Mexico and Portugal.

October 2013: Portuguese Prime Minister visits Mexico

In October 2013, Portuguese Prime Minister Pedro Passos Coelho made an official state visit to Mexico, furthering diplomatic ties between the two nations.

2013: Agreement on Air Transportation and Agreement of Cooperation in the Area of Demand, Reduction and Fight against Illicit Trafficking in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances

In 2013, Mexico and Portugal signed an Agreement on Air Transportation and an Agreement of Cooperation in the Area of Demand, Reduction and Fight against Illicit Trafficking in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances.

June 2014: Mexican President visits Portugal

In June 2014, Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto visited Portugal on a state visit to commemorate 150 years of diplomatic relations between Mexico and Portugal.

July 2017: Portuguese President visits Mexico

On 17 July 2017, Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa conducted a state visit to Mexico, where he was received by President Enrique Peña Nieto. They agreed to enhance Portuguese investment in Mexico, increase the presence and export of Mexican companies to Portugal, promote tourism, and foster bilateral cooperation in science and technology.

2023: Total Trade Between Mexico and Portugal

In 2023, the total trade volume between Mexico and Portugal reached $811 million USD.

February 2024: Agreement to Promote Business Opportunities and Diplomatic Relations Anniversary

In February 2024, Mexico and Portugal, especially the Coimbra region, signed an agreement to promote business opportunities and encourage trade and investment. In 2024, both nations also celebrated 160 years of diplomatic relations.