Italy has allocated a special quota for 10,500 Pakistani workers over the next three years and issued more than 3,200 student visas for the 2025–26 academic year, reflecting growing cooperation between the two countries. Speaking at Italian National Day and Republic Day celebrations in Islamabad, marking the 80th anniversary of the Italian Republic, Ambassador Marilina Armellin highlighted progress in migration, education, trade, climate action and cultural ties, describing the relationship as one built on trust and shared goals. Senate Chairman Yousaf Raza Gilani and Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik were among the chief guests at the event.
Migration and Consular Cooperation
The outgoing Italian ambassador said she had witnessed the relationship between Pakistan and Italy grow steadily during her tenure. Marilina noted that one of the most visible signs of this partnership was the construction of Italy’s new diplomatic compound in Islamabad, which she described as a lasting symbol of cooperation. While work continued on the new embassy headquarters, both nations had also focused on strengthening the substance of their bilateral relationship. The ambassador said migration remained a key area of cooperation because Italy hosts the largest Pakistani community within the European Union. Both countries had taken steps to improve consular services and simplify procedures for citizens. She also referred to the implementation of the bilateral migration memorandum signed last year, which had already produced results. Under the agreement, Italy reserved a special quota for 10,500 Pakistani workers who would be allowed to enter the country over the next three years.
Training and Education Initiatives
The ambassador said Italy had also introduced training programmes aimed at preparing prospective migrants before their departure. She described these initiatives as important for both countries, helping workers gain skills while supporting legal migration pathways. Education has emerged as another growing area of cooperation. The ambassador revealed that Italy processed more than 3,200 visas for Pakistani students enrolled in undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral programmes during the 2025–26 academic year. The increasing number of Pakistani students attending Italian universities reflects the expanding educational links between the two nations.
Economic and Trade Relations
Discussing economic relations, she said there was still significant room for growth. Pakistan’s recent economic developments had attracted renewed interest from Italian businesses. This interest was evident during a recent conference of ambassadors held in Milan, where several members of the Italian business community sought meetings to explore opportunities in Pakistan. Important agreements had been signed during the past year, including contracts in the technology and defence sectors, demonstrating growing commercial engagement between the two countries.
Agriculture and Climate Cooperation
The ambassador also highlighted cooperation in agriculture and climate change, describing them as areas where Pakistan’s requirements and Italy’s experience complement each other. She pointed to ongoing projects aimed at improving climate resilience in Sindh and supporting agricultural development. As a symbolic reminder of these efforts, guests at the event received small bottles of olive oil. The ambassador said the initiative demonstrates how development projects can become sustainable and create opportunities for communities with limited resources.
Cultural and Scientific Ties
Cultural and scientific cooperation remained an important pillar of the bilateral relationship. During her stay in Pakistan, she visited all UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the country and said each visit deepened her appreciation of Pakistan’s history and civilisation. Italy remained committed to supporting Pakistan at UNESCO and helping promote its cultural heritage on the international stage.
Political Relations and Regional Stability
Turning to political relations, the ambassador praised the constructive engagement between the two governments. She specifically acknowledged Pakistan’s efforts to support peace initiatives in the Middle East, describing them as important contributions to regional stability. She noted that Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni publicly supported Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts. The ambassador also referred to coverage by one of Italy’s major newspapers, which described Pakistan’s role under the Latin headline “Islamabada Caput Mundi”, meaning “Islamabad, Capital of the World”.
Anniversary and Women's Role
The ambassador further noted that 2026 marks the 80th anniversary of the Italian Republic. She recalled that Italians voted to establish a republic 80 years ago, and that historic vote also marked the first time women in Italy were granted the right to vote. An exhibition at the event showcased women who played a role in shaping modern Italy. Guests also viewed artwork by Federica Fontana, an Italian artist who has made Pakistan her home.
Concluding her speech, the ambassador said she was leaving Pakistan with mixed emotions. She acknowledged that both countries had created high expectations and that much work remained to be done. However, she expressed confidence that the friendship, trust and cooperation developed over the years would continue to strengthen relations between Pakistan, Italy and the wider international community.
