The Portugal Ambassador to Pakistan, Frederico Silva, visited Sindh from 21 to 26 November 2025 to assess development initiatives led by the Aga Khan Development Network and the Aga Khan Foundation across Karachi and Thatta. The Portugal Ambassador focused on projects that aim to improve education, health services and livelihoods for underserved communities in the province.
In Karachi the delegation toured several Aga Khan education institutions, including the AK Higher Secondary School, Sultan Mahomed Shah AK School and the Aga Khan Institute for Educational Development, observing innovative teaching models and teacher training programs that have been refined over decades. Ambassador Silva praised the high standards of these institutions and acknowledged the role of AKF leadership under CEO Akhtar Iqbal in delivering sustained community impact.
Discussions with Aga Khan University leadership and a visit to its internationally recognised hospital highlighted opportunities for deeper academic exchange and collaboration. The Ambassador described AKU as one of the most impressive institutions of higher learning and medical care in South Asia and welcomed prospects for joint initiatives in medical training and health services.
A full-day field visit to Thatta provided firsthand insight into the Aga Khan Rural Support Programme’s work in rural and coastal communities. The delegation visited crab and shrimp ponds in the village of Ahmed Khan Baluch and saw community-led improvements in sanitation, potable water access and small-scale agriculture that support sustainable livelihoods and local resilience.
Throughout the visit the Portugal Ambassador commended AKDN for its professionalism, vision and deep commitment to improving lives across Sindh. He noted that AKDN’s integrated work in education, health and rural development offers a model of effective, long-term and sustainable investment in empowering communities and citizens.
The Embassy of Portugal expressed interest in exploring future avenues of cooperation with AKDN and AKF, recognising the Network as a valuable partner in promoting human development, social progress and inclusive growth in Pakistan.
