ISLAMABAD: Acting President Syed Yousuf Raza Gillani has called for further strengthening Pakistan’s relations with Italy, with a particular focus on trade, investment, agriculture, labour mobility and people-to-people contacts.
He made the remarks during a meeting with Italian Ambassador Ugo Ciarlatani, who called on him in Islamabad on Monday.
Gillani said Pakistan and Italy had significant opportunities to expand their economic partnership. He stressed the need to make greater use of the existing potential in bilateral trade and investment.
The acting president welcomed the presence of Italian companies in Pakistan. He encouraged Italian businesses to explore further investment opportunities in sectors of mutual interest.
He said stronger commercial engagement between the two countries could help expand economic cooperation and create new opportunities for businesses and workers.
Gillani also highlighted the importance of agriculture as an area where Pakistan and Italy could deepen cooperation. He called for greater engagement in fields that could benefit both economies.
Labour mobility was another key area discussed during the meeting. Gillani emphasised the importance of strengthening people-to-people links and facilitating greater interaction between the two countries.
The Italian ambassador highlighted the important role played by the Pakistani community in Italy. He said around 300,000 people of Pakistani origin were living, working and studying in the country.
Ciarlatani said the Pakistani community was making contributions towards bringing the two countries and their people closer.
The presence of a large Pakistani diaspora in Italy provides an important bridge between the two countries, particularly in cultural, social and economic relations.
The meeting underscored the shared interest of Pakistan and Italy in expanding bilateral cooperation beyond traditional diplomatic ties.
Both sides discussed ways to further strengthen relations through increased trade, investment, agricultural cooperation, labour links and closer people-to-people contacts.
