Portugal's President Calls for Apology and Acknowledgement of Past Role in Slavery.

Portugal's President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa has called for his country to apologize and take responsibility for its role in the transatlantic slave trade, which saw 6 million Africans kidnapped and sold into slavery by Portuguese vessels from the 15th to the 19th century. Rebelo de Sousa's remarks, made at Portugal's annual commemoration of the 1974 "Carnation" revolution, mark the first time a Portuguese leader has suggested a national apology. However, critics have called for concrete measures and commitments, including reparations and public policies to fight inequalities caused by Portugal's past.