The Embassy of Portugal celebrated the National Day of the Portuguese Republic on Tuesday with a diplomatic reception at the Islamabad Serena Hotel, emphasizing the growing partnership and shared values between Pakistan and Portugal.
Ambassador of Portugal to Pakistan, Paulo Miguel Guedes Domingues, said both nations are united by a core belief that “dialogue will always prevail over confrontation.” Addressing guests, he underscored the critical role of diplomacy and bridge-building in today’s world of conflicts and geopolitical tensions, and commended Pakistan’s constructive efforts in promoting peace and regional dialogue.
Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development Chaudhry Salik Hussain attended as chief guest, while Federal Minister for Water Resources was the guest of honour. The event drew senior government officials including Ministers Qaisar Ahmed Sheikh, Syed Imran Ahmed Shah, and Barrister Aqeel, Governor Sindh Nehal Hashmi, members of the diplomatic corps, armed forces representatives, business leaders, academics, and civil society.
Ambassador Domingues noted that Portugal and Pakistan have enjoyed 76 years of friendship rooted in mutual respect. He said bilateral ties are strengthening across multiple fronts: political dialogue is deepening, economic cooperation is expanding, academic exchanges are rising, and people-to-people contacts are growing. He pointed to upcoming political consultations in Islamabad and the planned visit of Portugal’s Foreign Minister later this year as evidence of a shared vision to elevate relations.
Highlighting community ties, the Ambassador said around 50,000 Pakistanis now live in Portugal, studying, working, and investing. “Their contribution is deeply valued. They are among the strongest ambassadors of friendship between our two nations,” he said.
He also referenced Portugal’s historic connection with the Ismaili community, noting Lisbon hosts the seat of the Ismaili Imamat. The legacy of His Highness Prince Aga Khan IV, he added, continues to inspire work in dialogue, education, and development.
Ambassador Domingues thanked the Government of Pakistan for supporting Portugal’s candidature for the UN Security Council 2027-2028 term. “We deeply appreciate this gesture of friendship and trust, and look forward to working closely with Pakistan at the United Nations and beyond,” he said.
The Ambassador expressed gratitude for the warmth he and his wife, Carla, have received since arriving in Islamabad. “Pakistan has welcomed us with such warmth that we truly feel at home. Hospitality is one of Pakistan’s greatest traditions,” he remarked.
He also acknowledged the efforts of the embassy staff, honorary consuls in Lahore and Karachi, and event sponsors and partners in making the National Day celebration possible. The evening’s highlight was a ceremonial cake-cutting by the dignitaries, including Ambassador Domingues, the Ambassador of the European Union, and Federal Minister Chaudhry Salik Hussain, symbolizing the enduring friendship between Pakistan and Portugal.
The reception served as a platform for high-level engagement, reinforcing commitments to deepen bilateral cooperation. The event concluded with a toast to the continued prosperity and friendship between the people of both countries.
