the goan I network
MARGAO
Even as motorists were directed by the traffic cops to take the Comba road for onward journey to the city Old market and down south, a VIP vehicle with escort made its entry onto the road, bringing home Goa’s very own, Antonio Costa, Prime Minister of Portugal to his ancestral home after decades.
As Antonio stepped out of his car, he was welcomed by his cousin Anna Karinha with a hug and a remark “welcome home”, as the students sang a specially composed song in Portuguese to welcome the Prime Minister back home. The Prime Minister profusely thanked the students, before shaking hands with the people around, some of whom had specially assembled outside the home, just to hello the visiting guest.
Inside the house, a Chef specially roped in from Radisson Blue resort, Cavelossim was apparently giving final touches to the menu, an Indian-Western fusion for the memorable occasion. Even as his cousin told the visiting media that something “special” lunch is being prepared for the PM, Antonio intervened saying “she cooks very well”.
During his brief interaction with the visiting foreign media, Antonio recalled his fond memories of his last visit to his ancestral house. He explained how his father and brothers grew up in the house decades ago, before his father travelled to Portugual, while his brother stayed back in the house.
Since the visit was indeed a private affair, the Portuguese Prime Minister spent around two and half hours with cousin, Anna Karinha, her Finish Mother, husband and children. “Antonio indeed wanted some rest after a hectic schedule and we ensured that the visit was strictly a private affair”, informed Anna, who had last saw his cousin in Lisbon in April last after he rose to become Portugal PM.
Before leaving the city, Antonio did not let a group of persons down waiting outside to either have a glimpse or shake hands with him. He posed for a photograph with a couple of enthusiasts holding a Portuguese flag, and extended his hands to those who wanted to wish him. He was handed over a collection of books, besides photographs, which he accepted as a mememto.
