In a landmark development for overseas employment, Pakistan has successfully negotiated a dedicated quota of 10,500 jobs for its workforce in Italy. This significant achievement, announced by the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development, marks Italy as the first European nation to establish a formal, country-specific employment quota for Pakistani nationals.
A Strategic Breakthrough in the European Market
The spokesperson for the ministry confirmed the news on Saturday, highlighting that this three-year arrangement is the result of special diplomatic and ministerial efforts. Federal Minister Chaudhry Salik Hussain had personally advocated for the quota with Italian authorities. The annual breakdown allows for 3,500 Pakistani workers to travel to Italy each year, comprising 1,500 seasonal and 2,000 non-seasonal workers.
This initiative is being hailed as a critical step for Pakistani labor seeking opportunities in the European Union. The quota covers a diverse array of sectors, providing a broad spectrum of employment possibilities. Key industries included are:
- Ship-breaking
- Hospitality and tourism
- Healthcare services
- Agriculture and farming
Opportunities for Skilled and Semi-Skilled Professionals
The program is designed to benefit a wide range of Pakistani talent. Specific roles that will be available include positions for welders, technicians, chefs, waiters, and housekeeping staff within the hospitality sector. The healthcare field will open doors for nurses and medical technicians, while the agriculture sector will require farmers and related agricultural workers.
Minister Chaudhry Salik Hussain welcomed the decision, calling it a "major milestone" for the nation. He emphasized that after sustained government efforts, the doors to employment in Italy are now formally open for Pakistani workers. "This is an important step toward expanding opportunities for our workforce in the European labour market," Hussain stated. He reiterated the government's commitment to securing dignified employment for Pakistani citizens across the globe, recognizing overseas Pakistanis as ambassadors and the backbone of the national economy.
Future Prospects and Formal Review
The ministry expressed optimism that Italy's move would set a precedent, encouraging other European countries to similarly open their labor markets to skilled Pakistani professionals. To ensure the smooth implementation and expansion of this cooperation, a second meeting of the Pakistan-Italy Joint Working Group on labour cooperation has been scheduled.
This pivotal review meeting will take place in Islamabad in February 2026. The agenda will focus on assessing the progress of the current quota initiative and exploring avenues for further collaboration and job opportunities between the two countries. This structured approach aims to build a long-term, sustainable pathway for Pakistani employment in Europe.
