Rawalpindi :The National Day of Portugal was celebrated with great enthusiasm and diplomatic warmth at Serena Hotel, Islamabad, marking a vibrant occasion to commemorate 75 years of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Portugal.
The prestigious event was attended by notable dignitaries including Speaker of the National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, Federal Minister for Professional Education Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, and Provincial Minister for Minorities Affairs Punjab, Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora, along with foreign diplomats, senior government officials, and members of the international community. The celebration featured a cake-cutting ceremony, symbolizing the deep-rooted bilateral ties and shared commitment to promoting collaboration in areas such as trade, education, culture, and people-to-people exchanges. Portuguese Ambassador to Pakistan, H.E. Manuel Frederico Pinheiro da Silva, expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s enduring friendship and reaffirmed the desire to further expand cooperation across diverse sectors. In his remarks, Provincial Minister for Minorities, Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora, conveyed heartfelt congratulations to the government and people of Portugal on their National Day. He highlighted the cultural and interfaith harmony that both nations value and promote. He said that Portugal has always been a symbol of inclusivity, peace, and cultural dialogue, values that resonate deeply with Pakistan’s vision for a pluralistic and tolerant society. “I believe events like today strengthen the bridge of friendship between our peoples and serve as a reminder of our shared values of respect, coexistence, and mutual progress.” Arora said. Minister Arora further noted the importance of such diplomatic gatherings in encouraging dialogue, religious tolerance, and international understanding, especially in the context of minority rights and cultural exchange. The event also showcased Portuguese music and culinary traditions, offering guests an immersive experience of Portugal’s vibrant culture.
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