Pakistan and Italy are set to enhance cooperation on legal labour mobility, focusing on simplifying and streamlining visa processes to create a transparent, merit-based system that prevents the exploitation of workers and students by unauthorised agents.

According to an official report today, the initiative was the central topic of discussion during a meeting between the Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme, Rana Mashhood Ahmed Khan, and Italy”s Ambassador, H.E. Marilina Armellin.

During the talks, Chairman Khan underscored the importance of effectively implementing the existing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on labour mobility. He noted that Pakistan”s young and skilled workforce represents a valuable asset for Italian industries and that a well-regulated system would be mutually beneficial.

The discussion also explored expanding educational collaboration, with Mr Khan describing Italy as a key academic destination for Pakistani students. He advocated for increased joint research projects and institutional linkages, praising the significant presence of Pakistani scholars in Italy, including those participating in Erasmus Mundus scholarships.

Broader bilateral ties were also on the agenda, with the Chairman expressing Pakistan’s desire to transform its cooperation with Italy into a long-term, comprehensive partnership covering trade, investment, and youth development. The significance of the Pakistan-Italy Business Forum and the Joint Economic Commission meetings was also highlighted as crucial for economic engagement.

Mr Khan conveyed Pakistan”s gratitude for Italy’s support for its non-permanent seat bid on the UN Security Council and acknowledged the close cooperation between the two nations regarding the Security Council”s reform process.

Both officials reviewed specific initiatives under the Prime Minister”s Youth Programme, including skills development, institutional partnerships, and youth exchange programmes. A particular emphasis was placed on strengthening the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector to align the skills of Pakistani youth with global standards.

The Chairman affirmed his commitment to ensuring transparent, legal, and ethical labour mobility under the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme’s ‘4Es framework’ and recognised the vital role the Pakistani community in Italy plays as a “strong bridge” between the two countries.

Ambassador Armellini welcomed the partnership with the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme, appreciating the Chairman”s efforts to create opportunities for young people. She affirmed her commitment to increasing future collaboration.

The meeting concluded with both sides expressing confidence that implementing legal labour mobility, facilitating student access, and promoting joint youth programmes would substantially strengthen the people-to-people connections between Pakistan and Italy.

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