Islamabad (GNP): Ambassador of Portugal to Pakistan, Paulo Guedes Domingues, reaffirmed Portugal’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Pakistan, describing ties between the two countries as entering a positive phase of growing cooperation and mutual goodwill.
National Day of the Portuguese Republic commemorated with great fervor and diplomatic warmth at a ceremony held at the Islamabad
Paulo Guedes Domingues address the National Day of Portugal reception said that the celebration reflects Portugal’s rich history, culture, and values while honoring the contributions of Portuguese communities worldwide and the legacy of renowned poet Luís de Camões.
He highlighting Pakistan-Portugal relations, he said the two countries share a long history of friendship, dialogue, and mutual respect. He noted that growing people-to-people contacts, particularly the contributions of the Pakistani community in Portugal, continue to strengthen bilateral ties.
Ambassador Domingues said cooperation between the two countries is expanding across political, economic, educational, cultural, and trade sectors, reaffirming Portugal’s commitment to exploring new opportunities for partnership and deeper engagement.
He thanked the Embassy staff, Portugal’s Honorary Consuls in Pakistan, and the Pakistani government, diplomatic community, business leaders, academics, media, and friends of Portugal for their support in promoting closer relations.
Concluding his message, the ambassador celebrated the enduring friendship between Portugal and Pakistan and reaffirmed Portugal’s desire to further deepen bilateral cooperation for the mutual benefit of both nations.
Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis, Ch. Salik Hussain, graced the occasion as the chief guest. The event was also attended by a distinguished array of government dignitaries, including Ministers Qaisar Ahmed Sheikh, Syed Imran Ahmed Shah, and Barrister Aqeel, alongside Governor Sindh Nehal Hashmi. The diplomatic corps was well-represented at the celebration, with the Ambassador of the European Union and the Ambassador of Portugal, Paulo Guedes Domingues, also in attendance.
Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development, Chaudhry Salik Hussain, addressed the Portugal National Day reception as the chief guest, conveying warm greetings and best wishes from the Government and people of Pakistan to Portugal on its National Day.
The minister said that national celebrations provide an opportunity to reflect on the values, achievements, and friendships that unite nations. He praised Portugal’s rich history, vibrant culture, and remarkable progress, describing the country as a model of resilience, innovation, and economic development.
Highlighting Pakistan-Portugal relations, Chaudhry Salik Hussain said the two countries enjoy excellent political ties and should now focus on expanding cooperation in trade, investment, tourism, technology, and business-to-business partnerships. He noted that bilateral trade has shown encouraging growth but stressed that there remains significant untapped potential for stronger economic engagement.
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The minister invited Portuguese investors and businesses to explore Pakistan’s dynamic market, pointing to opportunities in textiles, agriculture, renewable energy, information technology, tourism, logistics, and infrastructure. He also encouraged Pakistani businesses to strengthen their presence in Portugal and across Europe.
As Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development, he highlighted the valuable contribution of the Pakistani community in Portugal, estimated at around 50,000 people, describing them as a vital bridge between the two nations. He expressed hope for enhanced cooperation in human resource development, skills training, and labour mobility.
Concluding his remarks, Chaudhry Salik Hussain reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to further strengthening its partnership with Portugal and expressed confidence that the friendship between the two countries would continue to grow for the mutual benefit of their peoples.
The evening’s highlight was a ceremonial cake-cutting by the dignitaries, symbolizing the enduring friendship and strong bilateral ties between Pakistan and Portugal.
The reception provided an opportunity for high-level interactions and reaffirmed the shared commitment to expanding cooperation across diverse sectors. The event concluded with a toast to the lasting friendship and prosperity of both nations.
