According to The Resident, Portugal's Minister of Economy stated that Cristiano Ronaldo's importance to Portugal extends far beyond football.

Manuel Castro Almeida, Portugal's Minister of Economy, said: "Many people know Portugal because of Ronaldo." This statement comes amid reports of Ronaldo's departure from the Portuguese national team training camp.

According to The Resident, and reiterated by Now TV, Castro Almeida stated that Ronaldo has significantly enhanced Portugal's international image. He said: "Cristiano Ronaldo has a huge impact on improving and promoting Portugal's image." He even described the Portuguese star as "Portugal's most famous ambassador."

Castro Almeida emphasized that he is "not an expert" and had no intention of judging the football dispute between Ronaldo and coach Jorge Jesus. He was more focused on Ronaldo's broader significance to Portugal and his international standing.

The Minister of Economy believes that Ronaldo's global fame makes him a valuable asset for Portugal. He stated: "It is best for Portugal to continue to leverage this asset."

He also said: "From the perspective of enhancing Portugal's image and reputation, Cristiano has extremely important value, and it would be very beneficial for Portugal to continue to capitalize on this potential."

The Portuguese national team is preparing for their UEFA Nations League Group Stage Matchday 4 match against Norway on Sunday night. Ronaldo departed the training camp to return to his club, with his flight heading from Madrid to Riyadh.

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