Portuguese Prime Minister António Costa steps down amidst investigation into lithium agreement

The Portuguese Prime Minister, António Costa, has announced his resignation after investigators searched his official residence in connection with an alleged corruption case. He made this announcement during a televised address following a meeting with President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa. The investigation is focused on concessions given for lithium mines and hydrogen production, and two individuals close to Mr. Costa, including Infrastructure Minister Joao Galamba, have been detained in relation to the inquiry. As part of the investigation, approximately 140 detectives have conducted searches at the prime minister's residence and various government ministries. Despite being caught off guard by the corruption investigation, the prime minister has stated that he will cooperate with it.