Celebrating Portugal Day at the London Embassy:

On 10 June 2025, I had the immense honour of representing Thetford at the Portuguese Embassy in London, following a personal invitation from His Excellency Nuno Brito, Ambassador of Portugal to the United Kingdom. The reception marked Portugal Day, Camões Day, and the Day of Portuguese Communities, an annual tribute to Portugal’s history, its great poet Luís de Camões, and the thousands of Portuguese citizens who now call places like Thetford home.

As I walked through the familiar doors of the embassy, I was struck not only by the vibrant atmosphere but also by the warmth extended to guests from every corner of the Lusophone diaspora, as well as to British guests. Standing there in my mayoral chain, I was reminded once again that Thetford’s greatest strength lies in its diversity, and that our Portuguese residents are a cherished part of our civic family.

Highlights of the evening

• Strengthening ties with national leaders – I had the opportunity to speak at length with Ambassador Brito about Thetford’s thriving Portuguese community and the economic and cultural bridges we can build together in the months ahead.

• Inspiring new generations – A personal highlight was meeting Patrícia Gomes, an exceptionally talented young maestra whose passion for orchestral music reflects the creativity we also nurture in our local schools.

• Championing global causes – I spoke with Mónica Ferro, Director of the UNFPA London Office and former Portuguese Secretary of State, about youth empowerment and women’s health issues that deeply resonate with our borough’s priorities.

• Celebrating the arts – Actress Marta Carvalho shared insights into Portugal’s blossoming film scene and expressed pride in seeing fellow Portuguese women thrive in the UK, just as she has.

• Networking with diplomats & local politicians – From embassy counsellors to MPs representing Lusophone constituencies, every handshake opened doors for future educational exchanges, business partnerships, and cultural events.

  
  

Why this matters for Thetford

1. Economic opportunity – Stronger institutional links can pave the way for trade missions, job-creating investment, and tourism promotion that will benefit our town centre.

2. Cultural enrichment – Joint projects can bring history and shared goals to life right here in Thetford.

3. Community pride – Seeing Thetford represented on the international stage reaffirms to our Portuguese neighbours that they are an integral part of the town’s story and future success.

I return from London both humbled and energised. Representing the town I proudly call home on such a significant national day for Portugal is a privilege I never take for granted, despite my regular attendance.

To every Portuguese resident of Thetford: obrigado for enriching our community. Let us use the momentum of this embassy visit to deepen friendship, foster opportunity, and continue building a town where everyone belongs.