Portugal, Pakistan share commitment to dialogue and peace, says Ambassador Paulo Miguel Guedes Domingues
Celina Ali
Islamabad: Ambassador of Portugal to Pakistan, Paulo Miguel Guedes Domingues, said this week that Portugal and Pakistan share a strong commitment to dialogue, diplomacy, and peaceful cooperation, emphasizing that dialogue is always more effective than confrontation in addressing global challenges.
He made these remarks at a reception hosted by the Embassy of Portugal to celebrate Portugal’s National Day.
The event was attended by Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development Chaudhry Salik Hussain as the chief guest, along with federal ministers, diplomats, senior government officials, members of the armed forces, business leaders, academics, and representatives of civil society.
The ambassador noted that Portugal and Pakistan have maintained 76 years of friendship based on mutual respect and constructive engagement. Despite being geographically distant, he said the two countries are developing closer ties and increasingly shared interests.
He described the bilateral relationship as one characterized by friendship, opportunity, innovation, and common aspirations. According to him, political dialogue is expanding, economic cooperation is growing, academic exchanges are increasing, and people-to-people contacts continue to strengthen.
Ambassador Domingues highlighted upcoming bilateral engagements, including political consultations in Islamabad and a planned visit by Portugal’s foreign minister later this year, as evidence of both governments’ commitment to deepening relations.
He also acknowledged the contribution of around 50,000 Pakistanis living in Portugal, noting that they play an important role in Portuguese society and help strengthen ties between the two nations.
The ambassador further highlighted Portugal’s longstanding association with the Ismaili community and its role as host of the seat of the Ismaili Imamat in Lisbon. He said the legacy of Prince Aga Khan IV continues to inspire efforts in dialogue, education, and development.
Expressing appreciation for Pakistan’s support of Portugal’s candidacy for a United Nations Security Council seat for the 2027–2028 term, he said the gesture reflected the trust and friendship between the two countries.
Addressing global conflicts and geopolitical tensions, Ambassador Domingues stressed the importance of diplomacy, bridge-building, and peaceful engagement. He also commended Pakistan’s constructive efforts in promoting dialogue and supporting peace initiatives in complex regional environments.
The ambassador concluded by thanking the people and government of Pakistan for the warm welcome extended to him and his wife since their arrival in Islamabad, saying they have felt at home from the moment they arrived.
Earlier, he also paid tribute to the embassy staff, honorary consuls, sponsors, and partners who helped organize the National Day celebrations.
