Rome: Italian Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi has announced that Italy will issue 10,500 work visas for Pakistan's skilled labour force to encourage legal migration. The announcement was made during a meeting with Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi in Rome.

According to Radio Pakistan, the Italian Interior Minister emphasized that both countries will work towards enhancing mutual cooperation to facilitate legal migration. Additionally, Matteo Piantedosi stated that Pakistani diplomatic passport holders would be exempt from Italy's visa requirements. He expressed a willingness to expand cooperation with Pakistan in areas of mutual interest.

The meeting also concentrated on bolstering efforts to combat drug trafficking, human smuggling, and terrorism. Both Interior Ministers acknowledged the actions taken to address illegal immigration and human trafficking. Minister Mohsin Naqvi highlighted Pakistan's effective measures in reducing illegal immigration through stringent surveillance at airports and sea borders.

The Italian Interior Minister commended the achievements of Pakistani institutions in curbing illegal immigration, human trafficking, and drug trafficking, recognizing their commendable efforts in these areas.