Italy has announced its plan to issue 10,500 work visas for Pakistan’s skilled labour force in a significant move to promote legal migration channels between the two countries.
The declaration was made by Italian Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi during a formal meeting with his Pakistani counterpart, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, held in the Italian capital, according to an official report today.
In a further diplomatic development, Mr Piantedosi confirmed that holders of Pakistani diplomatic passports will be exempt from Italy”s visa requirements.
Discussions during the high-level meeting focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation, particularly in combating drug trafficking, human smuggling, and terrorism.
Both ministers acknowledged and praised the efforts undertaken to curb illegal immigration and the associated crime of human trafficking.
Minister Naqvi informed his Italian counterpart of Pakistan”s effective measures to prevent illegal emigration, noting a substantial reduction in such activities due to strict surveillance at airports and maritime borders.
The Italian Interior Minister commended the achievements of Pakistani institutions, describing their successes in preventing illegal immigration, human trafficking, and drug trafficking as laudable.
Mr Piantedosi also expressed Italy’s readiness to expand its partnership with Pakistan in additional areas of mutual interest.