Italy to issue 10,500 work visas for Pakistani skilled workers

ROME — Pakistan and Italy have agreed to issue 10,500 work visas for skilled Pakistani workers following talks between Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Italian Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi in Rome. The agreement is aimed at promoting legal migration channels and strengthening bilateral cooperation on internal security.

According to official statements, the meeting focused on regulated migration pathways, curbing illegal immigration and expanding collaboration in areas of mutual interest. The visa agreement is expected to facilitate lawful employment opportunities for Pakistani workers in Italy.

During the discussions, the Italian side expressed willingness to consider visa exemption for holders of Pakistani diplomatic passports. Officials noted that the matter had also been discussed in earlier engagements between the two countries.

Focus on migration and security cooperation

The two ministers also reviewed joint efforts to combat human trafficking, narcotics smuggling and terrorism. Both sides acknowledged ongoing measures to prevent illegal immigration and disrupt human smuggling networks.

Naqvi briefed his Italian counterpart on steps taken by the Government of Pakistan to reduce unlawful migration, including strengthened surveillance at airports and sea borders. He stated that these measures had contributed to a decline in illegal departures.

Italian authorities appreciated Pakistan’s efforts to address irregular migration and praised institutions involved in counter-narcotics and anti-trafficking operations.

Delegation-level participation

The meeting was attended by Pakistan’s Ambassador to Italy Ali Javed, Director General of the Federal Investigation Agency Dr Usman Anwar, Managing Director of the Punjab Safe Cities Authority Ahsan Younas, and senior police officials Abid Khan and Sohail Chaudhry.

Officials from Punjab Police also briefed participants on the Police Khidmat Markaz Global initiative, which was acknowledged during the discussions.

The visit underscores continued engagement between Pakistan and Italy on migration management and security cooperation.