Second Christmas Message Links Madeira-Born Ronaldo to National Mindset Change
In his second Christmas address as prime minister, Luís Montenegro turned to Madeira’s most famous figure, Cristiano Ronaldo, to argue that Portugal must change how it thinks about progress and ambition. Speaking as leader of the PSD/CDS-PP government, Mr. Montenegro said the country should move away from what he described as a habit of complacency and adopt a culture of effort, discipline and ambition - values he associated with the footballer born in Funchal.
We are at a historic moment in which we must let go of the mindset of complacency and adopt and work toward a mindset of overcoming challenges,” he said, before adding: “The mindset of Cristiano Ronaldo.
Luís Montenegro, RTP Madeira
Prime Minister Says No Early Elections Expected Before End of Term in 2029
Mr. Montenegro also used the address to reject the idea of early parliamentary elections, saying he expected political stability until the end of the legislature in 2029.
He noted that Portugal now faces about 3.5 years without national elections and urged political parties and institutions to focus on long-term responsibilities rather than short-term disputes.
Economic Growth and Stability Cited as Reasons for Confidence in Portugal
Turning to the economy, the prime minister said recent results give reasons for optimism. He pointed to rising incomes and steady economic growth that, according to him, place Portugal above the European average. He also mentioned a recent distinction by The Economist, which he said confirmed the country’s improved standing abroad.
It is yet more good news for southern Europe. After Spain’s victory last year, Portugal is our best-performing economy this time round. In 2025 it has combined strong gdp growth, low inflation and a buoyant stockmarket.
Mr. Montenegro framed the situation as a choice between staying comfortable with current conditions or using financial stability to aim higher. He argued that only the second option would protect Portugal’s position in the coming years.
Christmas Message Highlights Social Concerns and Ongoing Global Conflicts
The address closed with references to social vulnerability and international crises. Mr. Montenegro spoke directly to elderly people living alone, victims of domestic violence, those facing illness or poverty, and workers who remain on duty during the holiday season, including health professionals, security forces and journalists.
He also mentioned families affected by wars in Africa, the Middle East and Ukraine, linking global conflicts to shared human responsibility. In that context, he described Portugal as a national family able to gather at Christmas with confidence and hope about the future.
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