Islamabad (Web Desk): Italy has opened a dedicated pathway for Pakistani workers by allocating 10,500 employment slots over the next three years, while also granting more than 3,200 student visas for the 2025-26 academic year, signaling the strengthening partnership between Islamabad and Rome.
Speaking at celebrations marking Italy’s National Day and Republic Day, Italian Ambassador Marilina Armellin highlighted the growing collaboration between the two countries across several sectors, including migration, education, trade, climate initiatives, and cultural exchanges. She described Pakistan and Italy as partners united by mutual confidence and common aspirations.
The ambassador, who is concluding her diplomatic assignment in Pakistan, reflected on the steady progress in bilateral relations during her tenure.
She said one of the clearest examples of this cooperation is the construction of Italy’s new diplomatic complex in Islamabad, which she termed a lasting representation of friendship and collaboration.
She noted that while work on the embassy project continues, both governments have simultaneously focused on expanding practical cooperation. Migration remains a central area of engagement, she said, pointing out that Italy hosts the largest Pakistani diaspora within the European Union.
According to Armellin, both sides have worked to improve consular services and make administrative procedures easier for citizens. She also highlighted the implementation of the migration agreement signed last year, which has already begun producing positive outcomes.
As part of that arrangement, Italy has earmarked a special quota allowing 10,500 Pakistani workers to legally enter the country over the coming three years.
The ambassador added that Italy has introduced pre-departure training schemes for prospective migrants, helping them acquire valuable skills before relocation.
She described these programs as beneficial for both nations because they support regulated migration while improving workforce readiness.
Educational cooperation has also gained momentum. Armellin revealed that Italy processed over 3,200 visas for Pakistani students enrolled in undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degree programs during the current academic cycle.
She said the increasing presence of Pakistani students at Italian universities demonstrates the expanding educational bond between the two countries.
Addressing economic ties, the ambassador observed that there is considerable potential for further growth. She noted that Pakistan’s recent economic progress has drawn renewed attention from Italian investors and businesses.
She cited a recent ambassadors’ conference in Milan, where representatives from the Italian business community expressed interest in meeting officials and exploring investment opportunities in Pakistan.
Armellin further stated that several significant agreements were concluded during the past year, including deals related to technology and defense, reflecting stronger commercial engagement between the two nations.
She also emphasized cooperation in agriculture and climate-related projects, describing these sectors as areas where Pakistan’s needs align well with Italian expertise. Ongoing initiatives, she said, are focused on boosting climate resilience in Sindh and supporting agricultural development.
To symbolically reflect these efforts, guests attending the event were presented with small bottles of olive oil. The ambassador explained that the gesture showcased how development projects can evolve into sustainable ventures that create economic opportunities for underserved communities.
Cultural and scientific collaboration, she said, continues to be a key pillar of bilateral relations.
During her time in Pakistan, she visited every UNESCO World Heritage site in the country, noting that each journey deepened her admiration for Pakistan’s rich historical and cultural legacy.
She reaffirmed Italy’s commitment to supporting Pakistan’s cultural heritage at UNESCO and promoting it on international platforms.
Commenting on political ties, the ambassador praised the positive and constructive dialogue between the two governments. She specifically commended Pakistan’s role in supporting peace efforts in the Middle East, describing its contributions as important for regional stability.
Armellin noted that Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni had publicly acknowledged Pakistan’s diplomatic initiatives. She also referred to an article in a prominent Italian newspaper that characterized Pakistan’s role with the Latin phrase “Islamabada Caput Mundi,” translated as “Islamabad, Capital of the World.”
Reflecting on Italy’s Republic Day, she pointed out that 2026 marks the 80th anniversary of the republic’s establishment. She recalled that the historic referendum not only transformed Italy into a republic but also granted Italian women the right to vote for the first time.
Among the distinguished guests attending the celebrations were Senate Chairman Syed Yousaf Raza Gillani and Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik.
The event also featured an exhibition honoring women who helped shape modern Italy, while attendees viewed artwork by Federica Fontana, an Italian artist who has chosen Pakistan as her home.
Ending part of her address in Urdu, the ambassador said she was departing Pakistan with mixed emotions.
While acknowledging that much work still lies ahead and expectations remain high, she expressed optimism that the friendship, trust, and cooperation cultivated over the years would continue to deepen ties between Pakistan, Italy, and the broader international community.