The Italian Head of State will be visiting Porto 7 December

The President of the Italian Republic, Sergio Mattarella, begins a two-day official visit to Portugal 6 December. Sergio Mattarella, following an invitation by the Portuguese President of the Republic, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, will be in the two main Portuguese cities to "strengthen the bonds of friendship between the two countries in all its dimensions".

On 7 December, the Italian Head of State is welcomed at Porto City Hall, in a solemn meeting by Mayor Rui Moreira.

Sergio Mattarella will then head to the Rectory of Porto University where he will be awarded the title of Doctor "honoris causa".

The Mayor of Porto will offer a luncheon to the visiting head of state and dignitaries, including Italian and Portuguese entrepreneurs at Palácio da Bolsa, in the magnificent "Salão Árabe" [Arabic Lounge].

Before leaving, President Mattarella will have the opportunity to visit S. Francisco Church and walk around in the historic Ribeira in Porto.