Another traditionally conservative Catholic country Mexico adopted to extend gay couples full marriage rights on December 21, 2009. A rainbow ribbon sits on the desk of delegates at the city's assembly in Mexico City.
Photograph by: Daniel Aguilar, Reuters
LISBON - Catholic Portugal, traditionally one of Europe's most socially conservative countries, is expected to approve the legalization of gay marriage on Friday with a minimum of fuss.
With the governing Socialists and other left-wing parties enjoying a strong majority, the new law is likely to sail through the first reading debate and gain final approval before a visit by Pope Benedict XVI, due in Portugal in May.
