https://twitter.com/home https://www.facebook.com/Shabbir.Hussain191By Shabbir Hussain
ISLAMABAD, Jun 17 (Alliance News): Portugal has expressed its desire to deepen cooperation with Pakistan at the United Nations and other international platforms, while acknowledging Islamabad’s growing role in promoting dialogue, peace and the peaceful resolution of global conflicts.
The remarks were made by Portugal’s Ambassador to Pakistan, His Excellency Paulo Guedes Domingos, during a reception held on Tuesday night at Serena Hotel, Islamabad, to mark Portugal Day, Camões Day and the Day of the Portuguese Communities.
Speaking on the occasion, the ambassador said Portugal greatly values Pakistan’s constructive role in international diplomacy, particularly its efforts to promote dialogue, reduce tensions and encourage peaceful solutions to regional and global disputes.
He said Portugal was keen to work closely with Pakistan at the United Nations and other multilateral forums, especially at a time when the world is facing complex geopolitical challenges and increasing uncertainty.
Referring to recent diplomatic developments, Ambassador Guedes praised Pakistan’s role in facilitating dialogue in a complex regional environment and creating conditions conducive to peace and negotiations. He said such efforts reflect the importance of diplomacy as the most effective tool for conflict resolution.
The ambassador also noted Pakistan’s role in supporting dialogue-based approaches in international affairs, adding that countries which keep communication channels open play a vital role in global peace and stability.
Highlighting bilateral relations, he said Pakistan and Portugal have enjoyed 76 years of diplomatic ties based on friendship, mutual respect and trust. He added that despite geographical distance, relations between the two countries continue to strengthen across multiple sectors.
Ambassador Guedes said political engagement between the two countries is increasing, economic cooperation is expanding, and educational and people-to-people exchanges are also growing steadily.
He announced upcoming high-level exchanges, including a bilateral political consultations meeting in Islamabad and a planned visit of Portugal’s Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs and Cooperation to Pakistan later this year, describing these developments as evidence of growing momentum in bilateral relations.
The ambassador noted with satisfaction that a growing number of Pakistanis are travelling to Portugal for education, employment and investment opportunities.
He said approximately 50,000 Pakistanis currently reside in Portugal and are contributing positively to Portuguese society while serving as bridges between the two nations.
He also highlighted Portugal’s special relationship with the Ismaili community and praised the establishment of the Ismaili Imamat headquarters in Lisbon, calling it a matter of honour for Portugal. He paid tribute to the late Prince Karim Aga Khan IV for his contributions to dialogue, education and human development.
Ambassador Guedes further noted that Portugal has been elected as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for the 2027–2028 term, saying it reflects international confidence in Portugal’s commitment to peace, dialogue and multilateral cooperation. He thanked Pakistan for supporting Portugal’s candidature.
He said Portugal and Pakistan share a common belief that dialogue is always stronger than confrontation, and that peace is not merely an aspiration but a shared responsibility of the international community.
On bilateral relations, he expressed confidence that the best chapters of Pakistan-Portugal ties are yet to come, adding that both countries will continue to strengthen cooperation in political, economic, educational and cultural fields.
The event was attended by federal ministers, diplomats, business leaders, media representatives and members of civil society. Guests were served traditional Portuguese cuisine, including bacalhau (salted cod), peri-peri chicken and pastel de nata.
In a light-hearted remark, the ambassador referred to Portuguese football icon Cristiano Ronaldo, saying that while some guests may have expected to meet him, the “Ronaldo” present at the event was only a cardboard cutout, adding that the real bond between Portugal and Pakistan was far more authentic and strong.
He concluded his speech by stating that while Pakistan and Portugal may be located at opposite ends of the world map, true friendship is defined not by distance but by trust, goodwill and a shared commitment to building a better future together.
