Pakistan and Italy reaffirm to strengthen bilateral cooperation

Italian Minister of Interior Matteo Piantedosi had a meeting with President Asif Ali Zardari at Aiwan-e-Sadr to have discussion on Pakistan-Italy bilateral cooperation in security, migration, and economic development.

Pakistani key official personnel attended the meeting, including Interior Minister Senator Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi, Minister for Overseas Pakistanis Ch Salik Hussain, and Minister of State for Interior Senator Muhammad Tallal Chaudhary.

President Asif Ali Zardari emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening ties with Italy in various areas. During a meeting, he also condemned India’s recent military aggression, which targeted innocent civilians and threatened regional peace.

Italy’s Interior Minister, Matteo Piantedosi, expressed sympathy for the victims of the Indian attack and assured Pakistan that Italy would raise the issue internationally. Both countries agreed to continue working together against human trafficking and terrorism, with Italy promising more cooperation in security and drug control efforts.

The two sides also discussed boosting economic relations. Italy acknowledged the contributions of the Pakistani community—around 160,000 people—living in the country. To support legal migration and provide more job opportunities for skilled Pakistani workers in Italy, two agreements were signed during the visit.

Pakistan and Italy also agreed to form a Joint Working Group to develop stronger cooperation and a shared approach to fighting narcotics and organized crime. Italy reaffirmed its support for counter-terrorism and border security efforts and plans to send a delegation to Pakistan for further talks.