João Vale de Almeida

João Vale de Almeida is a highly respected senior European diplomat with over 40 years of experience in international relations, European affairs, and global governance.

Renowned for his ability to explain complex geopolitical issues directly and engagingly, he has held several of the most prestigious diplomatic positions within the European Union.

João Vale de Almeida spent most of his career at the European Union headquarters in Brussels, where he served as Chief of Staff to the President of the European Commission.

His deep expertise in EU policymaking, international diplomacy, and transatlantic relations makes him a leading authority on global affairs.

Distinguished Diplomatic Career

EU Ambassador to the United Kingdom
EU Ambassador to the United States
EU Ambassador to the United Nations

As EU Ambassador to the UN in New York, he coordinated the European Union’s engagement across all UN bodies, closely collaborating with Permanent Representatives of EU Member States.

He played a key role in strengthening EU–US relations in Washington, including launching negotiations for the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership.

Before his posting in the U.S., João Vale de Almeida was Director General for External Relations at the European Commission. In this senior role, he helped shape and implement the EU’s foreign policy and laid the groundwork for the European External Action Service (EEAS) established by the Lisbon Treaty.

Earlier in his career, he held various senior positions within EU institutions, working under the leadership of prominent European Commission Presidents including José Manuel Barroso, Jacques Delors, Jacques Santer, and Romano Prodi. He began his EU journey in 1982 at the European Commission Delegation in Lisbon.

Academic Background and Honours

João Vale de Almeida holds a history degree from the University of Lisbon. He has pursued advanced studies in journalism and management in the USA, France, Japan, and the UK.

He worked as a journalist for seven years before joining the EU.

In 2011, the President of Portugal awarded João the Grand Cross of the Order of Prince Henry the Navigator in recognition of his service.

Current Roles and Affiliations

Today, Vale de Almeida continues to shape thought leadership in international affairs. He serves as:

Visiting Fellow at the University of Cambridge (UK)
Visiting Professor at Columbia University (USA)
Senior Advisor at the European Policy Centre
Trustee of the Oceano Azul Foundation