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U.S. Ambassador John Arrigo encouraged Portugal to replace its F-16 jets with Lockheed Martin's F-35 to ensure interoperability with European air forces. He aims to help raise Portugal's defense spending to NATO's target of 5% of GDP by 2035, up from 2%.

Arrigo highlighted that over 900 F-35s are in service or on order in Europe and that 25% of the aircraft consists of European parts. He also addressed U.S.-China relations, clarifying that the U.S. is promoting 'de-risking' without forcing Portugal to choose sides. Portugal joined China's Belt and Road Initiative in December 2018.