SÃO TOMÉ, São Tomé and Príncipe — São Tomé and Príncipe is looking to strengthen its economic links with Portugal as both countries prepare to explore a new framework for trade and private-sector investment.

Portugal’s Prime Minister Luís Montenegro said on September 9 that discussions were taking place to organise a future bilateral summit between Portugal and São Tomé and Príncipe. The proposed meeting would include efforts to stimulate investment by Portuguese companies in the island nation.

The announcement comes as São Tomé and Príncipe seeks to attract more private capital into strategic sectors and diversify its economy. The country’s National Sustainable Development Strategy 2026–2040 places strong emphasis on private-sector investment, public-private partnerships and blended financing to support economic transformation.

Tourism, agriculture, infrastructure, clean energy and services are among the areas with potential to attract additional investment. São Tomé and Príncipe is also seeking to strengthen its position as an investment destination following its transition away from least-developed-country status.

The proposed summit could give companies from both countries an opportunity to explore new commercial partnerships, investment projects and trade opportunities.

Montenegro also highlighted existing cooperation in areas including finance, education, health and energy, while noting that commercial interests between the two countries could be further developed.

For São Tomé and Príncipe, stronger Portuguese private-sector participation could provide additional capital, expertise and market connections at a time when the government is seeking to accelerate economic diversification.

The planned bilateral summit could therefore become an important platform for turning long-standing Portugal–São Tomé ties into new business and investment opportunities.