Although Portugal has a long history of diplomatic activity, dating back to the “Condado Portucalense” (County of Portugal), the first Secretariat of State dedicated to State Affairs was created by a decree issued by D. João IV, after the Portuguese Restoration, on 29 November 1643. This Secretariat of State was in charge of all affairs relating to negotiations (treaties, weddings and alliances), communication with foreign rulers in matters of peace and war, and with the sending of diplomatic agents abroad.