Meeting With President Antonio dos Santos Ramalho Eanes of Portugal White House Statement.

President Carter and the President of the Republic of Portugal, General Eanes, met this noon to discuss a wide range of political, economic, and security issues in which the two nations share an interest. Also present were Foreign Minister Sa Machado, Portuguese Ambassador Themido, Dr. Brzezinski, George Vest, Assistant Secretary of State for European Affairs, and Robert Hunter and Gregory Treverton of the National Security Council staff.

During the meeting the two Presidents reviewed developments in Africa, European security, human rights, bilateral economic cooperation, and U.S. use of Lajes Air Base in the Azores.

President Eanes described Portugal's progress in consolidating its democracy and in promoting economic recovery since the two leaders last met a year ago in London. President Carter expressed his admiration for President Eanes' personal contribution to these accomplishments and assured him that Portugal can count on continued United States understanding and support.

With regard to Africa, both Presidents expressed their hope for greater progress toward social justice and majority rule, and President Carter praised the positive role that Portugal has played in its relations with several African states. President Eanes expressed strong support for President Carter's human rights policies and agreed on the need to continue stressing these basic values.

During their review of European security issues, President Eanes informed President Carter of progress made by Portugal in activating a NATO-committed Army brigade, and he expressed appreciation for the support the United States and other NATO Allies have given the brigade. Both Presidents looked to further cooperation within the Alliance.

President Eanes confirmed the desirability of an early renewal of U.S. rights to use the Lajes Air Base, and he reiterated Portugal's assurances that it will not call into question the continued use of the base by the United States.