The Embassy of Portugal in Pretoria celebrated the Day of Portugal on 4 June 2024 at the Residence of the Ambassador. H.E. Mr. José Costa Pereira thanked all the guests for attending and, keeping his speech short, addressed four points.
The first was to congratulate South Africa on the electoral process, noting that the evidence shows how strong this young democracy is. Portugal trusts the maturity of South Africa’s political leaders and is confident that, as friends, a solution will be found to ensure the young democracy flourishes even more.
The second point raised was to thank the honorary guest, Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development Ms. Angela Thoko Didiza of South Africa, and the Secretary of State for Science, Professor Ana Paiva, who came from Portugal for the occasion.
The third point related to Ambassador Pereira’s experience in South Africa, which has been made easy due to the good relationship between the two countries. The state visit of the President of Portugal to South Africa in 2023, the agreement signed on defence, and the one to be signed on tourism offer a lot of hope, particularly in the education sector.
“We have a strategic relationship,” Minister Pandor said in a letter to the new Foreign Affairs Minister Mr. Paulo Rangel in Portugal.
Last but not least was about the Portuguese community, which is H.E. Mr. Pereira’s priority as they play an important role in the South African economy. It is a community that has integrated well into South Africa, working hard to prosper in a serene manner.
Dr. Ana Paiva addressed the guests, thanking everyone for their attendance. The year 2024 is special for Portugal as it marks 50 years of freedom and democracy.
“Camoes was able to understand what makes the Portuguese what they are: adventurous, persistent against adversity, open to others, adaptable, and courageous,” said Ms. Paiva in reference to the famous novel The Lusiad by Luís Vaz de Camões.
Specialising in science, Ms. Paiva explained that at the heart of an explorer there is a scientist, which is important.
“Science drives society, transforms curiosity into challenges, and converts the unfamiliar into the familiar, building avenues for new ways of solving problems in our world,” said Ms. Paiva. The Portuguese should not only be seen as explorers but also as scientists and innovators.
Ms. Paiva concluded by saying, “Our past will help shape our future.”
Minister Thoko Didiza congratulated Portugal on their special occasion on behalf of the Government and people of South Africa. “South Africa and Portugal share long-standing historical and cultural ties, and today we celebrate the strong bonds of friendship. The significant, large community of South Africans of Portuguese descent makes it the third largest Portuguese community outside of Portugal,” said Minister Didiza.
Both countries share common values and views on key multilateral issues such as human rights and a rules-based global governance system. South Africa and Portugal have well-established trade relations, and both sides are working hard to ensure higher growth and diversification.
Raising a toast, the speeches concluded, and guests enjoyed the fine Portuguese cuisine and delicacies.
by Marion Kate
