Portugal Ambassador, APP MD Discuss Strengthening News Cooperation

Report by Syed Farzand Ali

The Ambassador of Portugal to Pakistan, Frederico Silva, met with the Managing Director of Associated Press of Pakistan (APP), Muhammad Asim Khichi, to discuss enhanced news exchange cooperation between the official news agencies of both nations.

During the meeting at the APP Headquarters, Ambassador Silva emphasized the importance of fostering bilateral cooperation in media, education, culture, tourism, and business. He expressed keen interest in establishing a news exchange agreement between APP and LUSA, Portugal’s national news agency.

Highlighting the significance of media and information technology in today’s world, the ambassador underscored the necessity for both agencies to collaborate in sharing news and information that could benefit the people of both countries. He further stressed that enhanced communication linkages would open new avenues for bilateral relations, fostering cultural, business, and tourism ties between Portugal and Pakistan.

Managing Director APP, Muhammad Asim Khichi, welcomed the initiative and assured the Portuguese envoy that efforts to formalize a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for news cooperation would be expedited to promote mutual benefits for both nations.

The ambassador was accompanied by Portuguese author and journalist Teresa Nicolau, who is currently visiting Pakistan from February 22 to 27. Sharing her experiences, Nicolau expressed admiration for Pakistan’s diverse cultural heritage and flavorful cuisine. She participated in a literary festival in Lahore and attended various cultural events in Islamabad, appreciating Pakistan’s rich literary and artistic traditions.

Teresa Nicolau emphasized the need to preserve and promote literary heritage and called for collaborative efforts to strengthen cultural exchanges between Portugal and Pakistan. She highlighted the role of literature and journalism in bridging gaps between nations and fostering deeper people-to-people connections.

The meeting marked a significant step in strengthening bilateral ties through media collaboration, cultural exchange, and enhanced communication channels between Pakistan and Portugal.