LISBON, June 1 (Xinhua) -- The International Children's Day is being celebrated in Portugal, with authorities paying homage and public figures sending messages of consolation, joy and hope for better days ahead.
Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa visited the Sagrada Familia Social Complex, where he met children from daycare centers and schools in the metropolitan region of Lisbon.
Prime Minister Antonio Costa published a message on his social media as the country entered the third phase of de-confinement.
"On the day that we celebrate another Children's Day, we return to socializing in pre-school establishments. Fifteen days ago, we reopened the daycare centers, demonstrating that, with confidence and following the guidelines of the Directorate-General for Health, we could have our children in these establishments again," wrote Costa in his tweet.
Minister of Education Tiago Brandao Rodrigues visited a basic school in the southern city of Almada to symbolize the return to activities of educational institutions after more than two months of social isolation due to the pandemic.
"Today, on a special day of the International Children's Day, we are also sure that children can be children, but, on the other hand, we need to care for," he told reporters.
Portuguese singer Lura released a song with the name of her daughter, Nina Santiago, recording a special video clip with the girl.
"On this Children's Day, with this song, I want to celebrate Unconditional Love. Love grows like a plant that is watered and cared for every day. I want to celebrate this source of inspiration, joy and motivation that is my Nina and that are all children in the world," said the singer.
In addition, Portugal had a special program aimed at children, with free admission to museums, art shows and cultural activities -- all with appropriate health security measures. Enditem
