First-ever Portugal-Pakistan Chess Tournament kicked off in Islamabad
“Chess is more than a game — it’s a bridge of cultures,” said Ambassador Frederico De Silva during the Portugal-Pakistan Chess Tournament in Islamabad
Islamabad – 20 July 2025 (Adnan Hameed) : The Embassy of Portugal in collaboration with Serena and Pakistan Chess Association hosted the first-ever Portugal-Pakistan Chess Tournament on 19th July 2025 at Serena Hotel, celebrating 75 years of strong diplomatic relations between the two nations.
The event saw enthusiastic participation from over 40 players, including professionals, diplomats, and chess lovers, who gathered for a day of strategy, intellect, and camaraderie. Adding to the spirit of the occasion, Frederico De Silva, Ambassador of Portugal, also joined the players at the chessboard, sharing memorable moments with participants and showing his personal passion for the game.
In his opening remarks, Frederico Silva, Ambassador of Portugal to Pakistan, expressed his gratitude to Serena Hotels for co-organizing the event and extended appreciation to the Chess Federation of Pakistan for their support in facilitating the matches. Ambassador Silva highlighted the symbolic importance of the event, noting that chess is more than a game—it is a medium of strategic engagement, intellectual development, and cross-cultural understanding.
At the end of the tournament, medals were awarded to the successful candidates during heartwarming closing ceremony, recognizing their skills and sportsmanship. Hanif Qureshi secured first position with 5 points, Shujaat Ali second with 4 points, while Arqam Haroon claimed third place, also with 4 points.
The event created a lively and welcoming space where people of all ages could enjoy playing chess, a game that brings people together from different countries and cultures.
