Washington D.C. [USA], Jun 28 (ANI): United States President Donald Trump on Wednesday met Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa at the White House, where the two leaders discussed various issues.

Beginning the meeting on the significance of US Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy's retirement, Trump said, "In our country, the election of the justice of the United States Supreme Court is considered, I think we can all say, one of the most important events. Some people think outside of obviously war and peace it's the most important thing that you can have."

De Sousa, who is a constitutional lawyer, grasped Trump's comments and said both the US and Portugal have a "strong relationship", based on "common values like democracy, freedom, rule of law and human rights."

Earlier in the day, Justice Kennedy announced his retirement, saying he will officially step down from the post by July 31.

The two leaders then talked about economy, trade and global security.

Ending the conversation on the ongoing FIFA World Cup in Russia, Trump said in a lighter note, "Don't forget that Portugal has the best player in the world - Cristiano Ronaldo. I'm sure your son knows him. And if you ever go to Russia during the championship, don't forget Portugal is still there and wants to win. We are doing very well."

He added that Russia was doing a "fantastic job" and was looking forward to meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin at a planned summit slated to be held next month.

De Sousa described Ronaldo as the "best in the world."

Earlier this month, De Sousa met with the Portuguese communities in Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

The Portuguese President's US visit marks the culmination of the Portuguese-American community, and the close bond between the US and Portugal, according to the White House.

It added that Portugal is an important NATO ally and a partner in Afghanistan and the crisis regions of Africa, and is pressuring North Korea to give up its nuclear weapons.

"Together, the United States and Portugal will look to deepen cooperation in addressing global conflicts, promoting economic prosperity, and strengthening energy security," the White House further said.(ANI)

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