Beyond Portuguese connections, readers might find the historic ties between Pakistan and Portugal intriguing. The Portuguese influence in Pakistan can be traced back to a small community in what is now modern-day Pakistan, primarily among the Goan community in Karachi prior to Pakistan's independence. These settlers, originally from Goa, migrated during the British Raj seeking economic opportunities. In 1510, Goa was annexed by Portugal and remained under its rule until the Indian annexation of Goa in 1961. During this period, many Goans settled in Karachi, bringing Portuguese cultural influences with them. And the most recent strong connection between Portugal and Pakistan is that Ambassador Duarte Lopes started his diplomatic career with the first posting in Pakistan. He and his lovely wife Paula have wonderful memories of the friendships they developed while in Pakistan
An Enchanting Evening at the Ambassador's Portuguese Table
By C. Naseer Ahmad
Washington, DC: In a magnificent show of cultural unity and transnational friendship, H.E. Francisco Duarte Lopes, the Ambassador of Portugal, along with his charming wife Ms Paula Lopes, graciously opened the doors of their stunning residence to host an evening destined to be unforgettable. Esteemed guests, including H.E. Ekaterini Nassika, Ambassador of Greece, and the Deputy Chief of Mission of Brazil, mingled seamlessly with luminaries from the Portuguese diaspora, creating an atmosphere rich with warmth and camaraderie. The ambiance, enhanced by the captivating blue azulejos that mirrored Portugal's scenic splendor, provided a picturesque backdrop for vibrant conversations and cultural exchanges.
A crowning highlight of the evening was the presence of Maria Lawton, the beloved host and executive producer of PBS's "Maria’s Portuguese Table." Deeply rooted in her Portuguese heritage, Maria is a passionate advocate for preserving and celebrating Portugal's culinary legacy, particularly that of the Azores. Her acclaimed cookbooks, ‘Azorean Cooking: From My Family Table to Yours’ and ‘At My Portuguese Table: Azorean Cooking and More,’ invite readers to embark on a delightful journey through the nuanced flavors of Portuguese gastronomy. Her PBS series, the first national TV show to spotlight Portuguese cuisine and culture, has enjoyed historic success, earning accolades such as Telly Awards, Taste Awards, and Emmy nominations.
The evening unfolded like a magical journey to Castelo Branco, the Ambassador’s picturesque hometown, steeped in history and adorned with scenic charm. From the majestic remnants of a medieval castle to the intricate baroque beauty of Jardim do Paço Episcopal, the city dazzles with an enchanting blend of historical richness and allure. Guests embarked on a virtual tour of Portugal—from the sacred grounds of Fatima to the bustling streets of Lisbon, and the idyllic villages of the Azores and Madeira. Tales of culinary delights from Porto Pim, Faial to the charming village of Câmara de Lobos in Madeira, filled the air, inviting guests to imagine the exquisite treats served in quaint restaurants and cozy bars. Meanwhile, elegantly attired staff served delicious Portuguese treats and samples of fine beverages, facilitating enlightening conversations.
Amidst a time of uncertainty in the United States, the evening also provided a moment to reflect on the courage and foresight of leaders like John F. Kennedy of Massachusetts and John O. Pastore of Rhode Island. Their decisive action in crafting The Azorean Refugees Act of 1958—landmark legislation offering a compassionate response to a natural disaster—altered the course of US immigration policy. This act allowed thousands of Azoreans to immigrate to the United States, transcending existing quota limitations. Today, the descendants of these resilient refugees have become successful American citizens, enriching the Portuguese diaspora and sharing their vibrant heritage throughout this nation of immigrants.
As guests exchanged stories and laughter, they savored dishes inspired by local gastronomy, famed for delights like "Queijo Amarelo da Beira Baixa." Thanks to the impeccable organization by the Ambassador's team, this memorable event was a resounding success.
Beyond Portuguese connections, readers might find the historic ties between Pakistan and Portugal intriguing. The Portuguese influence in Pakistan can be traced back to a small community in what is now modern-day Pakistan, primarily among the Goan community in Karachi prior to Pakistan's independence. These settlers, originally from Goa, migrated during the British Raj seeking economic opportunities. In 1510, Goa was annexed by Portugal and remained under its rule until the Indian annexation of Goa in 1961. During this period, many Goans settled in Karachi, bringing Portuguese cultural influences with them.
And the most recent strong connection between Portugal and Pakistan is that Ambassador Duarte Lopes started his diplomatic career with the first posting in Pakistan. He and his lovely wife Paula have wonderful memories of the friendships they developed while in Pakistan.
Likewise, the historical connection between Greece and Pakistan is noteworthy. The Indo-Greek Kingdom, also known as the Yavana Kingdom, was a Hellenistic-era realm extending over parts of modern-day Afghanistan, Pakistan, and northwestern India. Founded by Graeco-Bactrian king Demetrius I around 200 BC, the kingdom beautifully blended Greek and Indian cultures, especially evident in their coinage and Greco-Buddhist art.
In summary, these gatherings in Portugal and the US exemplify the rich tapestry of cultural diplomacy, echoing a global narrative of unity, heritage, and shared futures. More than mere celebrations, these events are eloquent reminders of the enduring power of cultural exchanges to forge bridges across the world.
