Anglo-Portuguese Alliance (The Windsor Treaty)

Portugal and England share the honour of entering not only the history but record books with their long standing friendly relationship which has spanned over six centuries. The original treaty was created in 1373 by King Ferdinand II of Portugal and King Edward III of England and has been renewed eight times since then.

The original treat, which is commonly known as the Anglo-Portuguese Alliance, was signed in 1373, however it was the agreement, signed 13 years later which is recognised. The Windsor Treaty of 1386 sealed a diplomatic friendship which has endured the generations, both in good times and in bad.

The Windsor Treaty states Portugal and England, as nations, should be:

"True, faithful, constant, mutual and perpetual friendships, unions, alliances, and needs of sincere affection"

The Windsor Treaty is the oldest diplomatic friendship between countries in the world and one which both countries should be proud of. The Windsor Treaty was signed in 1386 by King Joao I of Portugal on his marriage to the English queen, Philippa of Lancaster. Joao, was recognised as the true king of Portugal ending speculation over a separate Spanish line of succession from the House of Castile.

The alliance has benefited both countries, though in the early years it was Portugal whom called upon it's more dominant friend more often. Forces from England helped expel the Spanish following their interim rule over Portugal. Two centuries later 1808 England came to Portugal's rescue in what has become known as the Peninsular Wars. English troops under the command of Sir Arthur Wellesley (later Duke of Wellington) spent four years in Portugal helping ensure the French invasion did not succeed.

Portugal returned the favour in the 20th century after a small dispute between the countries, which has been called the 'pink map'. Portugal joined England's allied troops in the First World War and again agreed to remain neutral in the second world war when the 'Powers that Be' thought they may join the Axis Powers (Germany, Russia and Italy).