Syed Yousuf Raza Gillani reaffirmed the warm and cooperative relations between Pakistan and Italy during a luncheon in Islamabad hosted by Senator Sarmad Ali for Italian Ambassador Marilina Armellin. The Senate chairman emphasized that the Pakistan Italy partnership is rooted in mutual respect and expanding collaboration across political and economic spheres.
Chairman Senate underlined that Italy remains one of Pakistan’s largest trading partners within the European Union and stressed the need to strengthen economic and political linkages. He noted that closer engagement with Italy can open new opportunities for trade, investment, and parliamentary cooperation that serve Pakistan’s national interests.
The vibrant Pakistani diaspora in Italy was highlighted as a vital bridge that reinforces people to people ties and supports trade and cultural exchanges. Strengthening ties with the diaspora was presented as an important element in deepening the Pakistan Italy relationship.
Ambassador Marilina Armellin expressed appreciation for the role of parliamentary friendship groups and conveyed greetings from Ms Sara Ferrari, chairperson of the Italy Pakistan Friendship Group in the Italian Parliament, with hopes of a visit to Pakistan soon. The ambassador also noted that the Senate chairman and delegations had visited Italy twice in the last year and voiced confidence that Italian lawmakers would reciprocate to further deepen collaboration.
Senator Sarmad Ali thanked the ambassador for her support and underlined the importance of sustained parliamentary exchanges in promoting closer cooperation. He expressed optimism that continued interaction between the two friendship groups will bolster parliamentary diplomacy and contribute to an enduring Pakistan Italy partnership.
Among those who attended the luncheon were Federal Law Minister Senator Azam Nazir Tarrar, Minister of State for Law Barrister Aqeel Malik, MNA Syed Naveed Qamar, Senator Shahadat Awan and Advisor to Chairman Senate and Ambassador ISC Misbah Khar, all of whom reiterated support for enhanced bilateral engagement.
