Madeleine McCann’s parents have broken their silence following the announcement that Portuguese authorities had identified a suspect in the case of the missing toddler.

Kate and Gerry McCann took to Facebook to issue an official statement on the latest development regarding their “beloved daughter”.

“We welcome the news that the Portuguese authorities have declared a German man an “arguido” in relation to the disappearance of our beloved daughter Madeleine. This reflects progress in the investigation, being conducted by the Portuguese, German and British authorities. We are kept informed of developments by the Metropolitan police,” the statement said.

“It is important to note the “arguido” has not yet been charged with any specific crime related to Madeleine’s disappearance. Even though the possibility may be slim, we have not given up hope that Madeleine is still alive and we will be reunited with her.”

Prosecutors from the Faro Department of Criminal Investigation and Prosecution (DIAP) announced in a statement on Thursday, April 21 that a “person was made an arguido” which translates to a person of interest or suspect.

“As part of the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the disappearance of Madeleine McCann in 2007, a person was made an arguido on Wednesday,” the statement said.

“The person was made an arguido by the German authorities in execution of a request for international judicial cooperation issued by the Public Ministry of Portugal.

“The investigation has been carried out with the cooperation of the English and German authorities.”

Authorities didn’t reveal the identity of the suspect who has not been charged with any crimes related to Madeline’s disappearance.

The announcement is the first major breakthrough in the case since Madeleine went missing from her bed at a resort while holidaying with her parents in Portugal on May 3, 2007. The case of the then three year old’s disappearance attracted considerable global attention. Despite a long running investigation, Madeleine’s whereabouts remain unknown to this day.