Portugal’s National Day Celebration Reflects 75 Years of Trusted Partnership with Pakistan
The Embassy of Portugal in Islamabad held a dignified celebration marking the 886th National Day of Portugal, which also coincided with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Portugal and Pakistan—reflecting decades of mutual cooperation and goodwill.
Speaker of the Pakistan’s National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq and Federal Minister for Professional Education Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui attended the event as chief guests, underscoring Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Portugal.
Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq highlighted the friendly and trust-based relations between Pakistan and Portugal, noting that these ties have grown stronger over time. He expressed Pakistan’s desire to further enhance cooperation with Portugal in key areas including education, trade, culture, and parliamentary diplomacy.
Federal Minister Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, during his speech reiterating Pakistan’s interest in fostering dynamic, people-centric ties with Portugal through greater collaboration in education and professional development.
Ambassador of Portugal to Pakistan, Manuel Frederico Pinheiro da Silva, in his address, expressed sincere appreciation for Pakistan’s longstanding partnership. The ambassador paid tribute to Portugal’s national poet, Luis Vaz de Camoes, whose 16th-century epic Os Lusiadas immortalised the country’s age of discovery.
Ambassador Silva called for urgent global dialogue amid conflicts in Gaza, Ukraine, and beyond. Reaffirming Portugal’s strong commitment to peace and multilateralism, he spotlighted the country’s candidacy for the UN Security Council (2027–2028).
The event was attended by ambassadors from various countries, senior govt officials, academics, business leaders, and members of civil society, reflecting the vibrant and dynamic nature of Pakistan-Portugal bilateral relations.
Guests highlighted the shared values and mutual objectives of Portugal and Pakistan, particularly in the areas of trade, education, and cultural cooperation. The evening concluded with a lavish dinner graciously hosted by the Embassy for all attendees.
