Web Desk: Italy has earmarked 10,500 employment opportunities for Pakistani workers over the next three years and granted more than 3,200 student visas for the 2025–26 academic year, underscoring deepening ties between the two countries across migration, education and diplomacy.
The announcement was highlighted during celebrations marking Italy’s National Day and the 80th anniversary of the Italian Republic, where officials pointed to growing collaboration in multiple sectors.
Addressing the event, Italian Ambassador Marilina Armellin said cooperation between Pakistan and Italy has expanded significantly in recent years, particularly in labor mobility and academic exchanges.
The dedicated employment quota is expected to create new legal pathways for Pakistani workers seeking opportunities in Italy, while the issuance of more than 3,200 student visas reflects increasing educational links between the two nations.
The initiatives demonstrate a shared commitment to people-to-people connections and skills development.
Armellin, who is concluding her diplomatic assignment in Pakistan, said she witnessed steady growth in bilateral relations throughout her tenure.
She pointed to the construction of Italy’s new diplomatic complex in Islamabad as a tangible symbol of the enduring partnership between the two countries and their commitment to long-term engagement.
According to the ambassador, cooperation has expanded beyond traditional diplomacy to include trade, climate initiatives, cultural exchanges and development partnerships.
Alongside bilateral matters, officials from both countries exchanged views on coordination at major international platforms, including the United Nations and the European Union.
The discussions focused on enhancing collaboration on regional and global issues while reinforcing support for multilateral engagement.
Both sides reaffirmed their intention to further strengthen longstanding friendly relations and deepen cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
As part of efforts to facilitate official exchanges, Pakistan and Italy also moved forward with arrangements allowing holders of diplomatic passports from both countries to travel without visa requirements, subject to agreed conditions.
Officials said the measure is expected to simplify diplomatic travel and encourage closer institutional engagement between government representatives.
The latest developments reflect a broader expansion of Pakistan-Italy relations, with migration, education, trade and diplomatic cooperation increasingly shaping the bilateral agenda.
With new employment opportunities, rising student mobility and enhanced diplomatic engagement, both countries signalled their intention to build on existing cooperation and explore new avenues for partnership in the years ahead.
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