Pakistan, EU strengthen bilateral ties, expand skilled worker opportunities

October 14, 2026 (MLN): Pakistan and the European Union have agreed to strengthen bilateral relations and expand opportunities for skilled workers, as both sides seek closer cooperation in migration, institutional collaboration and border management.

The understanding was reached during a meeting between Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and European Commissioner for Home Affairs and Migration Magnus Brunner in Islamabad, according to media reports.

The discussions also covered the European Union’s Eastern Corridor Initiative and joint efforts to eliminate illegal migration.

Brunner commended Pakistan’s effective measures that led to a 64% decline in illegal migration to Europe, describing the issue as an extremely serious global challenge. He also praised the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) for demonstrating professional competence despite limited resources, adding that the decline in illegal migration would help open pathways for legal migration.

Mohsin Naqvi said Pakistan had adopted a zero-tolerance policy against illegal migration and that, following the 64% reduction, the country’s next target was to eliminate it completely. He stressed the need for Pakistan and the European Union to work together to address the issue.

Both sides agreed to strengthen cooperation in migration, institutional collaboration and border management, while promoting legal immigration and expanding employment opportunities for skilled workers.

The meeting also discussed enhancing cooperation to build the operational capacity of the Pakistan Coast Guards. Brunner assured Pakistan of all possible cooperation in this regard.

The meeting was attended by the Secretary Interior, Special Secretary Interior, Additional Secretary Interior, Director General FIA, Inspector General Federal Constabulary, Director General National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA), Director General Passports, Chief Commissioner Islamabad and other officials.

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