Portuguese embassy celebrates national day

Diplomatic Enclave

Islamabad

To celebrate the Portuguese National Day, the Charge d’ Affaires of Portugal, Joao Sabido Costa and Mrs. Maria Gloria Sabido Costa hosted a reception at the Serena Hotel. The event was held at the Shishmahal Hall and attended by a large number of guests including diplomats.

The guest of honour was Minister for Human Rights, Kamran Michael and the cake cutting ceremony took place after the national anthem of both countries had been played against a backdrop showcasing a historic building in the Portuguese capital, Lisbon.

Addressing the gathering the host spoke of the cordial bilateral relations between Pakistan and Portugal which were good but needed expanding in areas that are not on the current list. He was hopeful that this would happen sooner than later and concluded by telling the guests to enjoy the evening.

In his response, the minister expressed similar sentiments and hoped the cooperation between the two countries would become stronger. On a personal note he spoke about his recent trip to Portugal and said Lisbon was a beautiful city and the Portuguese were friendly and hospitable people. He suggested that persons who love to travel should visit Portugal to experience its delights and concluded with wishing the Portuguese on behalf of the government and himself.

Dinner was served and guests who stayed on enjoyed the meal while interacting with each other or watching the video screening of the sights and sounds of Portugal.

Portugal is a southern European country on the Iberian Peninsula, bordering Spain and a part of the European Union. Its location on the Atlantic Ocean has influenced many aspects of its culture: salt cod and grilled sardines are national dishes, the Algarve's beaches are a major destination and much of the nation’s architecture dates to the 1500s–1800s, when Portugal had a powerful maritime empire. The National Day is celebrated annually on June 10th but was moved forward due to Ramzan. The date commemorates the death of national literary icon, Luís de Camões on June 10, 1580.