Relations between Portugal and Russia held a relatively minor position in the foreign policies of both nations. Although sporadic contacts date back to the 16th century, a concerted effort to establish direct ties became evident only with Russia’s integration into the European power structure under Peter I. Nevertheless, the formalization of relations took place only during the reign of Catherine II, when a common foreign policy interest was discovered. Thereafter, the relationship between the two states experienced periodic fluctuations influenced by the international context, their alignment within global alliances, and internal political conditions. A period of rapprochement occurred only at the end of the 19th century, following a diplomatic rift between Portugal and its long-standing ally, Great Britain. However, the temporary intensification of relations was short-lived. In the 20th century, despite revolutions occurring in both Portugal and Russia, the two revolutionary regimes maintained a cool distance. Official diplomatic ties were severed in 1918. Afterwards, up to the year 1974, relations were preserved exclusively through private means, involving commercial, cultural, and sports activities.
Russia; Portugal; USSR; trade; culture.