National Day Reception

While Pakistan’s National Day is officially observed on 23 March, this year’s reception was held in May to enable broader participation following Ramadan and Easter.

The Chief of State Protocol of the Portuguese Ministry of Foreign Affairs attended the event as the ‘chief guest’. The reception drew over 200 guests that included over 40 Heads of resident Diplomatic Missions, leaders from Portuguese government departments, senior officials, academics, business representatives, a large number of representatives and elders of the Muslim community in Portugal, and members of the Pakistani community.

The evening began with the national anthems of Pakistan and Portugal, followed by an address from His Excellency Dr. Muhammad Khalid Ejaz, Ambassador of Pakistan to Portugal. The Ambassador reflected on more than seventy-five years of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Portugal, marked by mutual respect, shared values, and growing cooperation in areas such as education, science, sustainability, and community engagement.

A strong focus of the Ambassador’s remarks was the Pakistani community in Portugal, which now exceeds thirty-five thousand people. He described the community as responsible, engaged, and deeply integrated across many aspects of Portuguese life, including agriculture, construction, hospitality, tourism, technology, education, and entrepreneurship. He acknowledged the growing civic participation of women, students, and families, and encouraged continued engagement in local parishes, councils, and institutions. He affirmed that the strength of the relationship is reflected through the active and dignified presence of the community.

The Ambassador also highlighted Pakistan’s position as an emerging economic power with a dynamic youth population and a diverse range of growing sectors, including digital innovation, sustainable agriculture, science, and the arts. He invited guests to explore Pakistan through its culture, people, and values, offering a deeper understanding of its history, creativity, and hospitality.

He reaffirmed Pakistan’s longstanding position on the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, emphasizing the importance of peaceful and just resolution based on United Nations Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people. He also raised concern over India’s suspension of the Indus Water Treaty, describing it as a unilateral decision that undermines international water cooperation and the rights of downstream nations.

In his speech, the Ambassador mentioned that Pakistan has condemned India’s act of aggression by violating Pakistan’s sovereignty using standoff weapons, targeting civilian population across international border, which resulted in martyrdom of civilians, including women and children. This act is a flagrant violation of the UN Charter, international law, and established norms of inter-state relations.

The reception featured a cultural showcase presenting Pakistan’s rich heritage, natural beauty, and creative identity. Guests enjoyed a curated selection of regional culinary cuisine, reflecting the diverse gastronomic traditions of Pakistan. Conversations among diplomats, community leaders, and Portuguese partners reflected a spirit of cultural exchange and shared curiosity.