The meeting started at 11am and was concluded little over half an hour later. The meeting has led to speculation that the President is ready to make a decision on a new government following the 4 October general elections.

Following the meeting, Cavaco Silva's office said he used the gathering to obtain further clarity as to the passing of the 2016 state budget by a Socialist government despite the fact that no clear support had been given be the Communists and the Left Bloc that they would vote in favour.

The President also asked Costa to "undertake all efforts with a view to presenting a governmental solution which was stable, lasting and credible."

Upon leaving, António Costa opted not to comment, greeting journalists with a simple "Bom dia", before exiting the building.