ISLAMABAD (special crosspondent) – The Ambassador of Portugal to Pakistan, H.E. Paulo Miguel Guedes Dominguez, called on Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani at his residence in Ministers’ Enclave, Islamabad, today. The meeting focused on consolidating bilateral relations, with a primary emphasis on trade, investment, parliamentary cooperation, and fostering stronger people-to-people contacts between the two nations.

Strengthening Economic and Bilateral Cooperation

Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani underscored that Pakistan attaches significant importance to its enduring and friendly ties with Portugal. He expressed a keen desire to further diversify and strengthen bilateral cooperation across critical sectors including trade, investment, agriculture, information technology, education, culture, and the development of the blue economy. Echoing the need for international economic synergy, the Chairman noted the significance of global partnerships as previously emphasized in discussions regarding Pakistan and Ethiopia’s agricultural cooperation.

Investment Potential and Parliamentary Dialogue

Highlighting the growth in bilateral trade, the Chairman Senate noted that there remains considerable potential to expand economic relations by identifying and exploring new avenues. He formally invited Portuguese companies and investors to explore Pakistan’s emerging business landscape, encouraging them to forge mutually beneficial partnerships. Furthermore, he emphasized the vital role of the Inter-parliamentary speakers’ conference, labeling it as a crucial platform to promote peace, regional security, and sustainable development.

Diaspora and Human Resource Development

The Chairman Senate praised the contributions of the Pakistani community in Portugal, noting that the diaspora of approximately 50,000 individuals serves as a vital bridge between the two countries. He stressed the necessity of enhancing cooperation in labor and human resource development, expressing optimism for the swift finalization of the Agreement on Labour Mobility Partnership. This framework is expected to facilitate better cooperation in labor mobility, a move similar in spirit to efforts seen in other administrative reforms like those within energy sector improvements.

Education, GSP Plus and Diplomatic Outlook

Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani advocated for deeper academic collaboration between Pakistani and Portuguese universities, specifically through student and faculty exchange programs and joint research initiatives. He further acknowledged Portugal’s consistent support for Pakistan’s GSP Plus status. Ambassador Paulo Miguel Guedes Dominguez expressed his appreciation for the warm reception and reiterated Portugal’s interest in deepening bilateral ties, particularly in the economic and trade sectors. Both representatives concluded the session by reaffirming their commitment to regular, high-level bilateral consultations, a practice often vital for maintaining regional stability, much like the diplomatic engagement observed in wider international alignments.