LAHORE: Portuguese Ambassador Paulo Domingues met with Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif to discuss ways to enhance bilateral relations, focusing on cooperation in trade, agriculture, and livestock. The meeting aimed at fostering stronger business and investment ties between Pakistan and Portugal.

According to Directorate General Public Relation – Govt of Punjab, the discussions included a proposal to establish a Pakistan-Portugal Business Forum. The chief minister extended an invitation to Portuguese companies to invest in Punjab, emphasizing cooperation in tourism and other sectors. Ambassador Domingues acknowledged Pakistan’s role in the Iran-US negotiations and commended Punjab’s establishment of the first public-sector cancer hospital, along with its achievements in the health sector.

The meeting also considered a proposal to declare Lahore and Lisbon as twin cities to facilitate cultural and educational exchanges. Ambassador Domingues expressed appreciation for Lahore’s cuisine and hospitality, inviting the chief minister to visit Portugal. Chief Minister Sharif highlighted the potential for cooperation in pharmaceuticals, energy, water resources, healthcare, and digital innovation, noting the interest of young Pakistanis in Portuguese football star Cristiano Ronaldo.

Both sides agreed on the importance of promoting Portuguese culture, heritage, language, and academic exchanges to strengthen people-to-people contacts. They emphasized the potential for enhancing tourism, cultural exchanges, and mutual understanding between the two nations, aiming to advance their relationship through institutional cooperation. Ambassador Domingues assured that Portuguese authorities would support Pakistani investors seeking opportunities in Portugal.