Rome, In a significant step towards strengthening bilateral relations and enhancing cooperation on security issues, Federal Minister for Interior and Anti-Narcotics Mohsin Naqvi, along with Federal Minister of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development Chaudhry Salik Hussain, met with Italian Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi in Rome today.

According to Press Information Department, the meeting focused on collaborative strategies to curb illegal immigration, human trafficking, and narcotics. The officials devised an integrated action plan aimed at tackling these pressing issues more effectively. The discussions also touched upon enhancing border security and preventing drug and human trafficking, with Italy pledging support to fortify Pakistan’s border controls.

A notable outcome of the meeting was the planned visit by an Italian team to Pakistan, which underscores the proactive measures being undertaken by both nations to implement their joint initiatives. Minister Naqvi also addressed the situation of 146 Pakistani prisoners in Italy, specifically requesting the repatriation of 42 prisoners, highlighting the humanitarian aspect of the bilateral relations.

Minister Naqvi extended an invitation to Minister Piantedosi to visit Pakistan, emphasizing that strengthened mutual cooperation would be instrumental in combating human trafficking and securing borders. He reiterated Pakistan’s zero-tolerance policy against human trafficking and the drug mafia.

On his part, Minister Hussain underscored the potential benefits to Italy from Pakistan’s skilled workforce and urged for the expedited finalization of a pending skilled manpower agreement to help mitigate the challenge of illegal immigration.

Minister Piantedosi lauded the efforts of his Pakistani counterpart in the prevention of human trafficking and drug trafficking and assured full cooperation in the areas of narcotics control, border security, and anti-human trafficking efforts.

The meeting, also attended by the Ambassador of Pakistan to Italy, Ali Javed, and senior officials from the Italian Ministry of Interior, marks a pivotal moment in Pakistan-Italy relations, reflecting a shared commitment to address global challenges of security and human mobility.