The Embassy of Brazil in Manila recently hosted a reception to mark the 196th anniversary of the Independence Day of Brazil at The Peninsula Manila. Close to 350 guests attended, including government officials, diplomatic and consular corps, representatives from international organizations, private sector companies and the media, and members of the Brazilian community in the Philippines.
Ambassador Rodrigo do Amaral Souza and Madam Laís do Amaral welcomed Assistant Secretary Maria Lumen B. Isleta, representing the Department of Foreign Affairs; Archbishop Gabriele Giordano Caccia, dean of the diplomatic corps; and ambassador of the Philippines to Brazil, Marichu Mauro.
Below are some excerpts from the speech of his excellency Ambassador Rodrigo do Amaral Souza:
“Today, Brazil celebrates its National Day, marking the 196th anniversary of our independence from Portugal in 1822. On this occasion, when we reflect on our national identity, it is with great satisfaction that I note the strength of the relations between Brazil and the Philippines, and the great potential still left to intensify them.
“Despite the geographical distance that separates our two countries, we are united by common values and historical ties. Filipinos and Brazilians share the legacy of multicultural peoples, shaped by diversity, a desire for development, the existence of solid democracies, diversified economies and an extensive environmental heritage.
“Brazil and the Philippines celebrated last July the 72nd anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations. I look forward with confidence and enthusiasm to the task of maintaining and strengthening our bilateral ties. Mabuhay ang Pilipinas! Viva o Brasil!” —CONTRIBUTED
