CPLP

The Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP), known in Portuguese as Comunidade dos Países de Língua Portuguesa, is an intergovernmental organization formed to foster cooperation among countries that share the Portuguese language. Its aims include promoting Portuguese language and culture, supporting sustainable development, upholding democracy and human rights, and strengthening political and economic collaboration among Lusophone states.

The eight member states are Angola, Brazil, Cape Verde, East Timor (Timor-Leste), Guinea-Bissau, Mozambique, Portugal, and Sao Tome and Principe. Timor-Leste joined in 2002 following its independence. The CPLP operates as a multilateral framework for relations among its members and does not function as a single market or trade bloc.

The organization is led by a rotating presidency among member states and houses a General Secretariat based in Lisbon, Portugal. It convenes a Heads of State and Government Summit every two years and holds ministerial meetings across various portfolios, including foreign affairs, education, culture, and social development. Through its programs and activities, the CPLP coordinates cooperation in education and culture, science and technology, health, governance, and economic development, as well as cultural exchange and language promotion.

In addition to its member states, the CPLP engages with observer and partner countries and international organizations to advance Portuguese-language initiatives and shared priorities. While the CPLP seeks to enhance the influence of Lusophone communities on global issues, it faces challenges such as resource constraints and differing development levels among members.