Pakistan and Italy have signed an agreement to exempt holders of diplomatic passports from visa requirements, marking a step aimed at facilitating official travel and strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries. The agreement was signed in Rome by Pakistan’s Ambassador to Italy Ali Javed and Italian Secretary General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Riccardo Guariglia.
Review of Bilateral Relations
Ahead of the signing ceremony, both sides reviewed the full range of traditionally cordial and cooperative relations, including collaboration at multilateral forums such as the United Nations and the European Union. Officials from both countries described the agreement as a reflection of mutual trust and friendship, adding that it would further strengthen existing institutional mechanisms for bilateral cooperation and exchanges.
Scope of Cooperation
Pakistan and Italy maintain wide-ranging relations covering trade, culture, science and technology, defence cooperation, and education. Several agreements and memoranda of understanding are already in place in these sectors, while academic and think-tank linkages continue to expand under existing frameworks. In the area of labour mobility, Pakistan’s embassy in Rome has highlighted employment opportunities for Pakistani workers, including a reported quota of 10,500 jobs in Italy.
Presidential Greetings on Republic Day
Meanwhile, President Asif Ali Zardari extended greetings to Italian President Sergio Mattarella and the people of Italy on Republic Day, observed on June 2. In his message, the president said Pakistan greatly values its longstanding friendship with Italy, based on mutual trust, cooperation and shared aspirations for peace and prosperity. He expressed confidence that bilateral relations would continue to grow in scope and depth in the coming years, while also acknowledging Italy’s constructive role within the European Union in promoting dialogue, cooperation and global stability.
