As part of the partnership between the Portuguese Diaspora Council and the Jornal de Negócios, Catarina dos Santos-Wintz, Member of the German Federal Parliament and Counselor of the Western Europe Regional Hub of the Diaspora, was interviewed by Jornal de Negócios. In the interview, Catarina dos Santos-Wintz discussed her professional journey and identified competitive opportunities for Portugal, its economy, companies, and entrepreneurs in general.

1- WHAT LED YOU TO LEAVE PORTUGAL?

My parents met and lived together in Portugal in the 80s – my mother is Portuguese, and my father is German. After I was born, they decided to move to Germany. The first city where we lived was Aachen – in the far west of Germany. As we arrived there in August 1994, I have no memories of the move. However, I often spoke to my mother about her experience at that time. After that, we returned to Portugal regularly every year, especially in the summer, of course, but also, in some years, at Christmas, Easter or other holidays to visit family. Later, I also worked and lived in Lisbon for a few months.

2- WHAT ADVANTAGES OR DISADVANTAGES DID BEING PORTUGUESE BRING YOU?

As I was born in Lisbon and grew up in Germany, it is a great privilege for me to have lived between two cultures. I speak both languages and I know both mindsets. I identify with both my Portuguese identity and my German identity, because both cultures have had a great influence on my life, and I feel very connected to both countries. Therefore, I see an advantage in being Portuguese and German, in the sense that, despite some differences, I always see the common points and the value of different cultures. We can learn more from each other if we are open to new and interested things. This is also a way of experiencing Europe. In addition, the image of the Portuguese in Germany is very positive.

3- WHAT OBSTACLES DID YOU HAVE TO OVERCOME AND HOW DID YOU DO IT?

As I grew up in Germany, I can mention few obstacles that have to do with the fact that I am also Portuguese. Of course, as a child, I was often asked about my origins, partly because of my nickname. I also remember many comments like: “But you speak German well”. And I’m sure that many people who grew up between two countries know the (perceived) obstacle of wanting to discover the role that each country plays in its own identity. However, over time, I have learned to see these two parts not as an obstacle, but as an enrichment. It gives me the opportunity to understand different perspectives and combine both cultures. However, it is a process in which we constantly question ourselves and try to find a balance between the two worlds.

4- WHAT DO YOU ADMIRE MOST ABOUT THE COUNTRY YOU ARE IN?

Germany is a country that is always reinventing itself. This year we are celebrating two very special anniversaries: the Federal Republic of Germany is 75 years old. On September 7, 1949, the first German Bundestag was constituted in Bonn. 50 years later, the Parliament of reunified Germany moved to Berlin. In these 75 years, the country has gone through several social changes, made important decisions, celebrated and cried together. I think that in Germany we have a certain pragmatism and a relaxed approach to doing things. For sure, also a certain love for detail. I feel this particularly in the many visits I make to businesses and organizations in my constituency. There is a huge amount of hard work, knowledge and potential here, which is encouraging in the face of the many challenges we face as a society.

5- WHAT DO YOU ADMIRE MOST ABOUT THE COMPANY/ORGANIZATION YOU ARE IN?

Being a member of the German Bundestag is not a normal job. It is a great responsibility, but also a privilege to represent the interests of the people of my constituency in Berlin and to be able to contribute to the future of Germany. Of course, the wheels of politics turn slowly, and the debates are sometimes hard and tiring, but I am well aware of the honor it is to be able to contribute my ideas about Germany’s future to the high house of democracy. If I can contribute to positively influence, even if it’s a small piece, and bring something good to the people of Germany, that’s something that makes me happy and proud. Moreover, this also applies to the Portuguese living in Germany. I also feel responsible for them and their concerns.

6- WHAT RECOMMENDATIONS WOULD YOU GIVE TO PORTUGAL AND ITS ENTREPRENEURS AND MANAGERS?

I believe that people, also in companies, know exactly what they can do and what they need. Our task as politicians is to create the right framework conditions. To this end, it is essential that I continue to dialogue and listen to where the shoe tightens. So, I can only encourage people to talk to those in charge and, above all, to take advantage of opportunities, to make decisions and to be optimistic. Only through an open dialogue can we provide targeted support and jointly develop solutions that meet specific requirements. I can therefore only encourage you to talk to those in charge, to formulate your concerns clearly and, above all, to seize opportunities, to take decisions and to be optimistic. After all, change needs not only good ideas, but also the courage to implement them consistently. Together, we can chart the path to a positive and sustainable future.

7- IN WHICH SECTORS OF THE COUNTRY WHERE YOU LIVE CAN PORTUGUESE COMPANIES FIND CUSTOMERS?

Economic relations between Germany and Portugal have a long and rich history. Due to these relationships and the resulting trust, Portuguese companies have numerous opportunities in Germany to attract customers in various sectors. There is a great deal of interest in innovative solutions, particularly in the fields of mechanical engineering and technology. German companies and consumers appreciate the great innovative strength of Portuguese products, especially in the field of renewable energies, where Portuguese companies impress with interesting projects.

8- IN WHICH SECTORS IN PORTUGAL COULD COMPANIES IN THE COUNTRY WHERE YOU ARE WANT TO INVEST?

On the other hand, German companies can also find investment opportunities in various sectors in Portugal. Some German companies have been operating in Portugal for more than 100 years and several renowned companies have maintained production facilities in Portugal for decades. I also see great potential for development in the fields of mechanical engineering and technology. The renewable energy sector is particularly notable here, as Portugal’s progress in solar and wind energy, as well as the circular economy, offers numerous opportunities for cooperation. In addition, the expansion of digital infrastructure and the promotion of start-ups in Portugal offer attractive prospects for German investors.

9- WHAT IS THE COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE OF THE COUNTRY YOU ARE IN THAT COULD BE REPLICATED IN PORTUGAL?

From a German point of view, Portugal can benefit from Germany’s competitive strength in areas such as Industry 4.0, education systems (e.g. in dual training) – although the Portuguese German Chamber of Commerce and Industry, for example, has already achieved great success here. Germany is characterized by high productivity, a strong export economy and a consistent promotion of research and development. In particular, the close link between business and education could be adapted in Portugal.

10- ARE YOU THINKING OF RETURNING TO PORTUGAL? WHY?

For now, I intend to stay in Germany, partly because of my work. But I dream of having my own little retreat in Portugal, where I would like to spend more time later on. Whether it’s the famous beachfront house or maybe a small apartment, that’s secondary.