EDS Delegation Visits Lisbon for Strategic Meetings

Lisbon, Portugal – From 21 to 23 June 2025, Chairman Francesco Sismondini and Secretary General Vladimir Kljajić led an EDS delegation to Lisbon for a series of institutional and political meetings focused on youth engagement and future cooperation within the EPP family.

During the visit, the delegation met separately with youth representatives of the two main Portuguese EPP member parties. Productive discussions were held with Maria Galhano from the Social Democratic Youth (JSD) and with Luís Sousa and Rodrigo Leitão from the People’s Youth (JP), the youth wing of the People’s Party – CDS.

Thanks to Rodrigo Leitão, the delegation was also given the opportunity to visit the Portuguese Parliament, where they learned more about the institution’s history and role in national politics.

These meetings marked an important step in reinforcing ties between EDS and its Portuguese partners. With both parties achieving strong results in the May 2025 elections, the discussions focused on youth policy priorities, shared challenges, and avenues for future collaboration.

As a sign of continued partnership, the EDS leadership officially invited both youth organizations to join the upcoming Summer University in Genoa, Italy, where young leaders from across Europe will gather to shape ideas for a stronger and more united future.

We look forward to welcoming our Portuguese friends in Genoa this summer!