Pakistan's Sharif says cooperating with Europe to curb illegal migration

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated that his country is working with European partners, including Austria, France, and Germany, to prevent and impose a "joint ban" on illegal migration.

Speaking Monday at the Pakistan-Austria Business Forum in Vienna during a two-day official visit, Sharif said Islamabad is "completely" opposed to illegal migration and is coordinating with European countries to halt the trend entirely. He emphasized that while curbing illegal migration, Pakistan is prepared to supply Austria's demand for skilled labor in line with international standards and certifications.

A 2023 study by the UN Office on Drugs and Crime and the European Union found that around 24,000 Pakistani citizens entered EU member states illegally over the past three years. Meanwhile, large numbers of Afghan youths leave the country each year via illegal routes in search of better job opportunities.

Sharif highlighted the "long-standing friendly" relations between Pakistan and Austria, pointing to potential cooperation in mining, minerals, and renewable energy sectors. He noted that 60% of Pakistan's population consists of youth who require modern education, including in information technology and artificial intelligence.

During the visit, Sharif received an official welcome with a guard of honor at the Austrian Chancellery and held talks with Federal Chancellor Christian Stroker on expanding bilateral ties. The trip marks the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries and is the first such visit by a Pakistani prime minister in more than three decades.