Islamabad, 16 February 2024 (TDI): The Ambassador of Portugal to Pakistan, had an interactive session with the 5th International Young Diplomats School (IYDS) participants at the Riphah Institute of Public Policy (RIPP) in Islamabad.
A briefing session was held on the relationship between Pakistan and Portugal. The diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Portugal have been established for 72 years.
The Ambassador highlighted how over time the mutually beneficial relationship between the two countries has evolved. Being a member of the European Union (EU), Finland has been a steadfast supporter of Pakistan in the region.
A significant aspect of the discussion was the policy focus on the Global South, with an emphasis on renewable energy initiatives.
The Ambassador highlighted Portugal’s commitment to promoting sustainable development and renewable energy projects, particularly in collaboration with countries in the Global South, including Pakistan.
Export opportunities, notably the trade of cork for cricket balls, were also explored. This niche export market highlights the potential for economic cooperation between Pakistan and Portugal, demonstrating how bilateral relations extend beyond traditional sectors.
Furthermore, the Ambassador reiterated Portugal’s stance as a proponent of multilateralism, human rights, and international law. This underscores Portugal’s commitment to upholding shared values on the global stage and fostering cooperation within the framework of international institutions.
Pakistan-Portugal Ties
Portugal and Pakistan have maintained diplomatic relations involving collaboration in various areas such as trade, education, and technology.
Portugal, as a member of the EU, engages with Pakistan in the context of broader EU policies and initiatives. Recently, the Third Round of Bilateral Political Consultations between Pakistan and Portugal was held in Lisbon on April 13, 2023.
International Young Diplomats School
The Institute of Peace and Diplomatic Studies (IPDS) launched the International Young Diplomats School (IYDS) as a ground-breaking program to highlight the value of diplomacy in the rapidly evolving, globally connected world.
It is the 5th International Diplomats School, in which participants are given opportunities to interact with Ambassadors of different Embassies.
IPDS has organized the Fifth Edition of the IYDS from 13-16 February 2024 in Islamabad. The participants are young professionals with diverse backgrounds, students, and faculty members across Pakistan.
During the School, the participants will be meeting hosted by Ambassadors of different countries at their offices. You can see details about the program here, especially about our earlier cohorts. You can also see our profile here.
IYDS is based on the model of the Public Diplomacy approach for offering an opportunity for Diplomatic Missions to meet diverse groups of professionals and young people from across Pakistan having various ethnic, religious, linguistic, and regional backgrounds.
Also Read: IYDS delegates visit British High Commission for specialized training initiative
Hence, offering the Diplomatic Missions to increase their outreach and interaction with the young people from across Pakistan.
On the other hand, IYDS offers young people to meet Ambassadors and Diplomats to learn more about countries and build stronger relationships while returning to their communities.
The group of 16-20 participants ages 18-40 having diverse academic and professional backgrounds from different regions of Pakistan joined to be part of the program.
The program includes visits to different diplomatic missions in Islamabad and information sessions with Ambassadors, Diplomats, and other Embassy staff.
Ambassadors and Diplomats will share insights about their missions, countries, and opportunities for education, development, and trade with the participants.
