BOSTON – Jan. 26, 2024 – Robert A. Sherman, senior counsel at global law firm Greenberg Traurig, LLP and former U.S. ambassador to Portugal, spoke at the University of Massachusetts Lowell event, “US-Portugal and US-EU Relations: A Conversation with Ambassadors Francisco Duarte Lopes and Robert A. Sherman,” Jan. 26. The event was presented by the school’s Saab Center for Portuguese Studies and Department of Political Studies, and the Consulate-General of Portugal in Boston.
Sherman presented with Francisco Duarte Lopes, Portuguese ambassador to the United States. They discussed the diplomatic ties between the United States and Portugal and the broader economic and security relationship with the European Union. The two ambassadors brought a wealth of experience and knowledge, offering attendees a first-hand perspective on the political, economic, and cultural dimensions that shape these crucial international connections.
Sherman has wide-ranging experience in government, law, and the private sector. With 30 years of legal, international, and public service experience, he brings a unique perspective and understanding of the global landscape in providing strategic counsel to clients on international issues, particularly involving EU countries. Sherman is a founding member and former co-managing shareholder of the firm's Boston office. He has wide-ranging trial and regulatory experience in the areas of government investigations and litigation, internal corporate investigations - with an emphasis on Foreign Corrupt Practices Act compliance - as well as consumer protection matters.
Sherman served as the U.S. ambassador to Portugal from 2014–2017, having been nominated by President Barack Obama and unanimously confirmed by the United States Senate. As ambassador, he focused heavily on bilateral economic development and international security issues, such as cybersecurity, refugees, narcoterrorism, and NATO. In recognition of Sherman’s work in the country, Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa decorated him with the country’s highest civilian award, the Grand Cross of the Order of Prince Henry the Navigator.