By Adnan Hameed TWA _______ The Embassy of Portugal in Islamabad celebrated Portugal's National Day with grandeur and diplomacy, underscoring the strong ties between Portugal and Pakistan. The commemorative event, held at the local hotel in Islamabad, was graced by esteemed dignitaries, including Chief Guest Riaz Hussain Pirzada, Federal Minister for Housing, Minister Qaisar Ahmed Sheikh, Director General ISPR Lt. General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, and Ambassador of Portugal Fredrico Silva.

The evening commenced with the reverent rendition of the national anthems of both Portugal and Pakistan, symbolizing the unity and respect between the two nations. The event attracted a distinguished gathering from the diplomatic community, Pakistani government officials, including notable figures such as Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, Speaker National Assembly of Pakistan, Senator Sherry Rehman, as well as representatives from the business sector, friends of Portugal, and members of the media.

Ambassador of Portugal delivered insightful remarks, shedding light on the rich diplomatic history shared by Portugal and Pakistan. Ambassador Silva delved into Portugal's rich history, tracing its origins back 885 years to its establishment in 1139, making it one of the oldest nation states globally. In his address, Ambassador Silva spotlighted Portugal's maritime prowess, recounting the nation's bold ventures into uncharted territories from the seventeenth century onwards. He paid tribute to visionary explorers like Vasco da Gama, whose expeditions paved the way for the establishment of maritime routes that connected continents and reshaped global trade dynamics.

The ceremony also honored the literary legacy of Luis Vaz de Camões, acclaimed poet and author of "The Lusiads," Portugal's national epic. Ambassador Silva emphasized the significance of June 10th, marking Camões' passing in 1580, as Portugal's National Day, symbolizing the nation's cultural heritage and literary eminence. Amidst the celebratory atmosphere, Ambassador Silva addressed pertinent global issues, calling for solidarity on matters concerning Ukraine and Gaza. He reaffirmed Portugal's stance on upholding international order and advocated for diplomatic resolutions to ongoing conflict.

We encourage Pakistan to be represented at high level in the forthcoming “Global Peace Summit” being held in Switzerland from June 15th. Portugal strongly condemnes the ongoing israeli offensive in Raffah and is gravely concerned with the continued deterioriation of the humanitarian situation. We also maintain our longstanding position of respect for the jurisdiction, independence and impartiality of the International Criminal Court. Portugal considers the recognition of the Palestinian State as an important step, with the underlying concern of choosing the best timing and context, to maximize its effect and send a positive political message to both parties. We are also very supportive of the vital role played by UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East) having not only maintained but reinforced our financial contributions to its activities. Highlighting the enduring bond between Portugal and Pakistan, Ambassador Silva underscored the bilateral cooperation across various sectors, including renewable energy, education, and trade. He expressed gratitude to the Pakistani people for their hospitality and reiterated Portugal's commitment to deepening ties with Pakistan. Ambassador Silva recounted his visits to key cities and regions, including Lahore, Karachi, Faisalabad, Peshawar, Nowshera, Abbottabad, Murree, Taxila, Chilas, and Gilgit-Baltistan. He marveled at the breathtaking beauty of Pakistan's natural landscapes, the depth of its historical and cultural fabric, and the magnificence of its architectural and urban monuments, all of which left an indelible mark on his memory. However, Ambassador Silva highlighted that his most impactful impressions came from his interactions with the people of Pakistan. He expressed admiration for the natural kindness and warm hospitality exhibited by the Pakistani people, both in Islamabad and throughout the regions he visited. He emphasized that these encounters with the Pakistani populace were cherished moments that he would forever hold dear. In a historical context, Ambassador Silva noted the establishment of the Portuguese Embassy in Karachi in 1949, followed by the opening of the Embassy of Pakistan in Lisbon in 1954. These diplomatic milestones underscored the longstanding bilateral relations between Portugal and Pakistan, reflecting mutual respect and cooperation between the two nations.

A highlight of the evening was the ceremonial cake cutting, led by Ambassador Frederico Silva and Chief Guest Riaz Hussain Pirzada, symbolizing the enduring diplomatic bond between the two countries. The event emphasized the mutual respect and cooperation that define the relationship between Pakistan and Portugal.

The ceremony concluded with expressions of appreciation to sponsors whose contributions facilitated the success of the event. Ambassador Silva extended best wishes to Cristiano Ronaldo and the Portuguese national football team ahead of the European Football Cup. Guests were treated to a delectable array of traditional Portuguese cuisine, served with warmth and hospitality by the Embassy of Portugal, adding a flavorful touch to the diplomatic festivities. The Ambassador of Portugal concluded his address with the proclamation, "Long life to Portugal-Pakistan friendship. Viva Portugal."