Ambassador Dr. Muhammad Khalid Ejaz highlighted the growing Pakistani community in Portugal as a vital link between Pakistan and Portugal during a recent event at the University of Coimbra. He emphasized their contributions to society, the integration of Pakistani students, and the importance of cultural interchange, including literature. Dignitaries from both nations participated, celebrating the achievements since the establishment of bilateral relations.
The Pakistani community in Portugal is recognized as a pivotal link between the two nations, as emphasized by Ambassador Dr. Muhammad Khalid Ejaz during a recent event. He expressed gratitude to Vice Rector, Professor Joao Calvao da Silva, for co-hosting at the historic University of Coimbra, which has upheld academic excellence since 1290. Ambassador Ejaz noted that the Pakistani community in Portugal is expanding, currently numbering approximately 50,000, with around 300 students enrolled in various universities, including 83 at Coimbra.
The Ambassador highlighted the integration of the Pakistani community into Portuguese society, underlining their contributions in areas such as IT and innovation. He also pointed out that Urdu, Pakistan’s national language, contains a significant number of Portuguese words, and there is an increasing interest among Pakistanis in learning Portuguese. The translation of Mr. Jose Luis Peixoto’s book ‘Blank Gaze’ into Urdu was noted as a recent cultural endeavor to foster this connection.
To strengthen cultural ties, the Embassy is focused on translating contemporary Pakistani literature into Portuguese, allowing for greater exposure of Pakistani thought in Portugal. The event commemorated the achievements of both countries since establishing diplomatic relations and featured a musical performance, short documentaries highlighting Pakistani arts and crafts, and a photo exhibition depicting various landscapes of Pakistan.
Attendance at the event included numerous dignitaries, faculty members, and students from several universities, such as Prof. Dr. Albano Figueiredo from Coimbra University and Ms. Silvia Silva Dias, Head of the International Relations Department. Other attendees included prominent representatives from various academic and student organizations in Coimbra, as well as significant members of the Pakistani community, showcasing the robust collaboration between Portugal and Pakistan.
In summary, the Pakistani community in Portugal plays a crucial role in bridging both cultures, with active contributions from the approximately 50,000 members residing in the country. The University of Coimbra serves as a significant platform for fostering this relationship, with efforts to enhance cultural exchange through literature and community integration. Events such as the recent gathering reinforce the deepening ties and shared achievements between the two nations.
Original Source: www.theportugalnews.com
