PM Shehbaz and EU Commissioner Discuss Migration Cooperation in Islamabad

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with European Union Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration Magnus Brunner on Tuesday to enhance cooperation between Pakistan and the EU regarding migration and mobility, a key focus of the Pakistan-EU Strategic Engagement Plan 2019.

During the meeting, which marked Brunner’s inaugural visit to Pakistan, PM Sharif emphasized the significance of the partnership with the EU. He outlined Pakistan’s ongoing initiatives to combat irregular migration, including legislative reforms, institutional strengthening, and international collaboration aimed at curbing migrant smuggling and human trafficking.

Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to bolster cooperation across all facets of the Strategic Engagement Plan, stressing that addressing irregular migration must be paired with practical avenues for safe and orderly migration. He highlighted the need to expand legal pathways for skilled Pakistani workers, ensuring that migration is both beneficial and regulated.

Looking ahead, the two leaders agreed to continue discussions on migration policies and explore further avenues for collaboration, aiming to create a framework that supports both nations’ interests in managing migration effectively.