ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis, Chaudhry Salik Hussain, has advocated for increased access to European labor markets for skilled and semi-skilled Pakistani workers. The minister emphasized the potential benefits of such access during a meeting with the Director General of the International Centre for Migration Policy Development, Susanne Raab, in Islamabad.

According to Radio Pakistan, Chaudhry Salik Hussain highlighted Pakistan’s substantial pool of skilled workers who could address labor shortages in European nations. He suggested the establishment of pilot mobility programs, joint training initiatives, and Centres of Excellence under the EU-Pakistan Talent Partnership to create structured employment opportunities for Pakistani workers.

Susanne Raab responded positively to Pakistan’s proposals, focusing on safe, orderly, and legal migration, skills development, and demand-driven labor mobility. She expressed a willingness to enhance cooperation with the Government of Pakistan and collaborate on initiatives aimed at workforce development and the promotion of legal migration.