It is encouraging to see the European Union strengthening ties with India, and meaningful that a person of Goan origin who left years ago still feels connected to Goa and its people. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant once criticised Goans who say “Viva Portugal”, yet the Prime Minister recently used the phrase positively. Goa’s history is different, having been ruled by Portugal, which allowed Goans to hold Portuguese passports. Portugal still values this link, though some local leaders oppose it. Many Goans have built stable lives in Europe due to limited opportunities at home. The Goa and Indian governments should consider dual citizenship for Goans born and raised in the State.
