Cultural ties celebrated on Day of Spain

Ambassador takes opportunity to voice support for Palestine, calls for ceasefire

ISLAMABAD:

"The unity between our countries is visible in the enormous appreciation for my country and Spanish culture that I receive from Pakistani society every day; an excellent political relationship; and a growing relation in trade."

Ambassador Jose Antonio de Ory acknowledged the long-standing diplomatic ties between Spain and Pakistan as he addressed the guests at Spain's celebration of its National Day in Pakistan, which was hosted by the Spanish Embassy in the federal capital.

The National Day reception was a welcoming event bordered by twinkling lights and floral arrangements that introduced the diverse group of guests to Spanish music and cuisine.

The evening began with a message from the President of Pakistan that was conveyed by Senator Syed Nayyer Hussain Bukhari, in which he congratulated Spain on marking its National Day and recognised "the presence of a sizeable Pakistani diaspora in Spain who are integrated into the local culture, and result in the creation of a unique mix of Pakistani-Spanish culture."

The Spanish Ambassador, in turn, opened his speech by paying homage to Pakistani culture and society by praising the "quality and resolve of its people that Islam encourages", "the beauty of its mountains," its rich cultures and the strength of its minorities. He talked about his recent travels to the Kalash Valley and to Karachi, appreciating the rich culture of Kalashi people and celebrating Novruz with the Parsi community respectively.

He went onto proudly proclaim the achievements of his own country, especially noting the emphasis on equality and inclusivity in Spain's national policy. He enunciated this point when he thanked his diverse team members by name, while acknowledging their varied backgrounds and ethnicities. The Ambassador was met with resounding applause when he voiced his concern for the plight of Palestinians, noting that Spain had recently recognised the state of Palestine and that it maintains its call for a ceasefire and a two-nation solution.

The Ambassador's address was followed by the chief guest of the event, Minister for Industries and Production Rana Tanveer Hussain's remarks about the strong relationship between the two countries, after which the guests returned to socialising with each other over traditional Spanish delicacies.

The menu featured a variety of dishes, each representing different provinces and cities of Spain. This included papas alinadas con ventresca (a potato and tuna salad) from Cardiz, tortilla de patata (a type of potato frittata), the famous rice dish from Valencia, paella, and turron, an almond and nougat confection which the Ambassador introduced as a dessert "with possible Arab origins, and a Christmas delight, which we will be having tonight!"