ISLAMABAD: Portuguese ambassador Frederico Silva on Tuesday he;d a formal reception at a local hotel to mark the Portugal National Day and 75 years of diplomatic ties with Pakistan.

The event also marked 886 years of Portugal’s storied history. A large number of dignitaries from the public and cultural life of the federal capital, as well as numerous representatives of the diplomatic corps attended the reception.

“Portugal, established in 1139 as an independent kingdom, has since become a symbol of maritime exploration, global cultural exchange, and enduring democratic values,” he said.

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. He also acknowledged the contributions of the five million-strong Portuguese diaspora around the globe and Portugal’s continuing commitment to democracy, the rule of law and human rights.

Highlighting Portugal’s “active” international role, Ambassador Silva emphasised the country’s commitment to peace and multilateralism, reiterating Portugal’s candidacy for a seat on the UN Security Council for 2027–2028.

He spoke of the pressing need for dialogue in light of ongoing global conflicts, from Gaza and Ukraine to other regions affected by unrest.

The celebration also honoured the “vibrant” Pakistani community in Portugal, numbering over 20,000. “These individuals - entrepreneurs, professionals, students - are a living bridge between our two nations,” the ambassador noted. He expressed satisfaction over growing bilateral cooperation in areas such as trade, renewable energy, tourism, education, textiles and cultural exchange.

Ambassador Silva extended special thanks to the partners and organisations that supported the National Day celebration.

In a symbolic gesture to mark the milestone of 75 years of bilateral relations, guests received a special key ring designed by Muaaz Khan, a young Pakistani artist. Crafted from recycled soda cans, the key ring reflects themes of sustainability, creativity and a shared commitment to a greener future.

Speaker of the National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Saddiq and Minister for Education Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui were chief guests.

The event concluded with a message of friendship, gratitude and hope for continued collaboration, the statement said.

Published in Dawn, June 18th, 2025