As expected, Portugal has become the sixth European country to legalize same-sex marriage.

President Anibal Cavaco Silva said today he had decided to ratify the legislation that passed Parliament in January, the AP is reporting.

Portugal, which is about 90% Catholic, joins the Netherlands, Belgium, Spain, Norway and Sweden. France and Denmark recognize same-sex unions, but they do not extend all rights enjoyed by married heterosexual couples.

During his visit to the country last week, Pope Benedict XVI denounced gay marriage and abortion.

(Posted by Michael Winter)