Ambassador Dr. Muhammad Khalid Ejaz thanked Vice Rector, Professor Joao Calvao da Silva, for co-hosting the event. The Ambassador stated that the University of Coimbra, with its deep-rooted traditions and commitment to academic excellence, symbolizes the rich heritage of Portugal. It has been a beacon of knowledge and intellectual discourse since 1290.

The Ambassador emphasized that the Pakistani community especially students serves as an essential bridge between Pakistan and Portugal. He stated that the Pakistani community in Portugal is growing and is approximately 50,000. Around 300 Pakistani students are also studying in various universities including 83 students in the University of Coimbra. The Ambassador emphasized the importance of the integration of the Pakistani community into Portuguese society. He also mentioned that Pakistanis are good in various sectors including IT and innovation.

The Ambassador stated that Urdu, the national language of Pakistan, bears so many words of the Portuguese language and there is a growing awareness in Pakistan of learning the Portuguese language. Recently, a Portuguese book titled ‘Blank Gaze’ (Nenhum Olhar), written by renowned Portuguese writer, Mr. Jose Luis Peixoto, has been translated into Urdu language and published in Pakistan. The Embassy has been working hard to create cultural linkages. The Ambassador emphasized that the work of Pakistani writers may be translated in Portuguese language so contemporary Pakistani literature and thought could be introduced in Portugal.

The speakers paid tribute to the achievements made in various fields from both sides since the establishment of bilateral relations. At the end of the event, there was a musical performance, a display of short documentaries on the arts and crafts of Pakistan, and a photo exhibition, showcasing the diverse landscapes of Pakistan. Important archival material from the history of political relations was also exhibited.

The event was attended by a large number of dignitaries, faculty and students of various universities. Prominent among them were Prof. Dr. Albano Figueiredo, Director of the Faculty of Letters, Coimbra University, Ms. Silvia Silva Dias, Head International Relations Department, Coimbra University, Mr. Pedro Almeida, President of the Erasmus Student Network of Coimbra, Eng. Helder Rodrigues, Vice President of the Association of Former Students of Coimbra in Braga, Ms. Ana Teresa Almeida, Advisor of the Rector for International Relations and Alumni, Ms. Marcia Rodrigues, Head of Casa da Lusofonia, Coimbra University, Prof. Manuel Lopes Porto, President, Association of European Students of Coimbra, Mr. Antonio Lopes, Representative of the Academic Association, and Ms. Joana Gouveia Loureiro, Head of Cabinet for Institutional and International Relations of Coimbra Municipality.

Prominent members of the Pakistani community also attended the event.