ISLAMABAD: The second round of Pakistan-Portugal Bilateral Consultations was held in Islamabad on 30 January. Additional Secretary (Europe) Zaheer Janjua led the Pakistani side, while the Portuguese delegation was headed by Ministry of the Foreign Affairs Foreign Policy Director General Ambassador Pedro Sanchez Da Costa Pereira.
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 as well. The Portuguese side was briefed on Pakistan’s counter-terrorism efforts and sacrifices, which were highly appreciated. Views were also exchanged on regional and global issues of mutual interest, including peace and security. The two sides expressed satisfaction on the ongoing cooperation at the United Nations (UN) and other multilateral forums and agreed to continue to support each other.
The Portuguese delegation also called on Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua. The foreign secretary noted with satisfaction that close and friendly relations between the two countries have strengthened over the years. Highlighting the achievements of the government, the foreign secretary briefed the delegation on the improved security situation, economic revival and increased investments opportunities in Pakistan. The Portuguese side was informed about 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 institutionalise the consultations framework, a memorandum of understanding on bilateral consultations between the foreign ministries of both the countries was signed during the meeting.
Pakistan and Portugal enjoy cordial relations at all multilateral fora and within the European Union framework. Bilateral consultations provided 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 consultations in Lisbon in 2019.