PM Shehbaz Vows Joint Action With Europe to Stop Illegal Immigration
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has said that Pakistan is actively working with European countries to curb illegal immigration and prevent human smuggling networks from exploiting young people. The statement came during his address at the Pakistan-Austria Business Forum in Vienna, where he is on a two-day official visit.
The prime minister emphasized that Pakistan strongly opposes illegal migration and is cooperating with European partners to address the issue in a coordinated manner.
PM Shehbaz Discusses Illegal Immigration at Austria Forum
While speaking at the business forum, PM Shehbaz made it clear that the government is “absolutely against” illegal immigration. He said Pakistan is engaging with Austria, France, Germany and other European nations to “jointly ban” unlawful migration routes and bring the issue under control.
Each year, thousands of young Pakistanis attempt to travel abroad through unsafe and illegal channels, hoping to secure employment opportunities. Many of these journeys end in exploitation, detention, or tragedy. The prime minister stressed that such routes must be shut down through strong cooperation between governments.
PM Shehbaz Offers Skilled Workforce to European Countries
At the same forum, PM Shehbaz assured Austrian officials that Pakistan is ready to meet Austria’s demand for skilled labour through proper legal channels. He said the government is prepared to ensure that workers meet international certification standards required by European employers.
The prime minister explained that Pakistan’s large youth population is an asset. Nearly 60 percent of the country’s population consists of young people who can contribute positively to global markets if given modern education and professional training.
He noted the importance of equipping youth with digital skills, including training in information technology, artificial intelligence, and other modern tools. By providing structured training and certification, Pakistan hopes to create lawful employment pathways abroad while reducing illegal migration.
PM Shehbaz Highlights Economic Cooperation With Austria
Beyond immigration, PM Shehbaz focused on strengthening economic ties between Pakistan and Austria. He described the relationship between the two countries as long-standing and friendly, with opportunities to expand cooperation in several sectors.
He mentioned mining and minerals as key areas where both countries can collaborate. Renewable energy was also highlighted as a sector with strong potential for joint investment and development.
In addition, the prime minister pointed to agriculture as a promising field. He suggested that Austria could support Pakistan with modern technology and expertise to improve value addition in agricultural products. For example, citrus fruits could be processed into marmalade and juices for export to Austria, the Middle East, and other global markets.
You Must Read This News: CM Punjab Maryam Nawaz Launches Pakistan’s 1st Green Police
PM Shehbaz Receives Guard of Honour in Vienna
During his official visit, PM Shehbaz was welcomed at the Austrian Chancellery with a guard of honour. Austrian Federal Chancellor Christian Stocker received him, and the national anthems of both countries were played.
The two leaders introduced their respective delegations before holding private talks and delegation-level discussions. According to official statements, the meetings aimed to review the full range of bilateral relations and explore new areas of cooperation.
The prime minister also wrote remarks in the guest book at the Chancellery. He is accompanied on the visit by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, and senior aide Tariq Fatemi.
A Historic Visit Marking 70 Years of Relations
This visit holds diplomatic significance, as it marks 70 years of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Austria. It is also the first visit by a Pakistani prime minister to Austria in more than three decades. The last such visit took place in 1992.
Officials from both sides expressed optimism that the trip would help deepen cooperation, particularly in economic development, labour mobility, and energy partnerships.
Follow Us On Social Media Channels:-
Like On FACEBOOK
Visit our WEBSITE
Subscribe to YouTube
Follow On TWITTER
Follow On INSTAGRAM
About the Author
