Minister of Parliamentary Affairs highlights the organization of the Thinking Football Summit during the event's Official Ceremony

The Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, Pedro Duarte, attended the Official Ceremony of the third edition of the Thinking Football Summit this Thursday, held at the Super Bock Arena in Porto. He gave high praise to Liga Portugal's organization and, in particular, to its President, Pedro Proença.

"I would like to greet our host of this event, our mentor, and, using football terminology, the finisher of this magnificent event that we are now inaugurating, despite the fact that this first day has already been a great success. This event is a paradigm. It is the clearest evidence of two things: first, of the enormous social, economic, and even cultural relevance of football in Portuguese society. Secondly, it is also a clear indication of the professionalism, competence, merit, and leadership of Liga Portugal in this football ecosystem and community. I, therefore, pay tribute and homage: congratulations, Pedro Proença, on this magnificent initiative that is now in its third edition," he said, before emphasizing the importance of football in Portugal at social, economic, and cultural levels.

"Football is about having dreams and realizing them. It's about scoring and winning, of course. Or at least trying to win. It's also about overcoming challenges. But it's also about equality, freedom, and responsibility. It's about inspiring people of all ages and from all geographies. It's about always striving for better. That's why much of what happens in football should inspire the world outside. The professionalism, the growth, the desire to be among the best is now a hallmark of Portuguese football, which has carried Portugal's name high. Football has helped the country economically and, most importantly, socially. It has helped reduce inequalities, generate wealth, project the country globally, and boost national self-esteem. It's also for these reasons that the growth of women's football in Portugal should make us burst with pride. Because football is a powerful force for inclusion at all levels. This is the path—please, don't waver," added the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs.

At the end of his speech, Pedro Duarte left two key messages: one of gratitude and one of responsibility: "Thank you to all of you, the key figures in football, for everything you've given to Portugal. Secondly, never forget your supreme responsibility. Football is an inspiration for all Portuguese people - help us become a better country with more opportunities for everyone."