(2018-01-30) The second round of Pakistan-Portugal Bilateral Consultations was held in Islamabad on 30 January 2018. Additional Secretary (Europe) Zaheer A. Janjua led the Pakistan side, while the Portuguese delegation was headed by Ambassador Pedro Sanchez Da Costa Pereira, Director General for Foreign Policy, Ministry of the Foreign Affairs.
The two sides discussed the entire spectrum of bilateral relations, including in the spheres of politics, economy, energy, agriculture, culture, education, consular cooperation, parliamentary exchanges and people-to-people contacts. Avenues were explored to boost cooperation in the fields of trade and investment. The Portuguese side was briefed on Pakistan’s counter-terrorism efforts and sacrifices, which were deeply appreciated. Views were also exchanged on regional and global issues of mutual interest, including peace and security in the respective regions. The two sides expressed satisfaction at their ongoing cooperation at the UN and other multilateral fora, and agreed to continue to support each other’s candidatures.
The Portuguese delegation also called on Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua. The Foreign Secretary noted with satisfaction the close and friendly relations between the two countries, which have strengthened over the years. Highlighting the achievements of the government, the Foreign Secretary briefed on the improved security situation, economic revival and increased investments in the country. The Portuguese side was apprised on Pakistan’s efforts for promoting peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan, relations with Iran, China and India, and human rights violations in the Indian Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
To institutionalize the consultations framework, an MoU on Bilateral Consultations between the Foreign Ministries of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and the Portuguese Republic was signed during the meeting.
Pakistan and Portugal enjoy cordial relations and closely cooperate bilaterally, at the multilateral fora as well within the EU framework. Bilateral Consultations provide a useful platform to review progress in various fields and identify opportunities for future cooperation. The two sides agreed to hold the third round of Bilateral Consultations in Lisbon at mutually convenient dates in 2019.
Islamabad
30 January 2018
