Chairman Senate Syed Yousuf Raza Gillani reaffirmed the warm and cooperative relationship between Pakistan and Italy during a luncheon hosted by Senator Sarmad Ali for Italian Ambassador Marilina Armellin in Islamabad, underscoring the need to deepen Pakistan Italy ties through sustained parliamentary engagement.
The chairman noted that Italy remains one of Pakistan’s largest trading partners within the European Union and called for stronger economic and political linkages to expand bilateral trade and investment. He also highlighted the role of the vibrant Pakistani diaspora in Italy as a vital bridge that supports people-to-people contact and commercial ties between the two countries.
Ambassador Marilina Armellin praised the work of the Parliamentary Friendship Groups in both parliaments and conveyed greetings from Ms. Sara Ferrari, Chairperson of the Italy–Pakistan Friendship Group in the Italian Parliament, expressing hope for her forthcoming visit to Pakistan. She recalled that the Senate chairman and delegations had visited Italy twice in the past year and expressed confidence that members of the Italian Parliament and Senate would reciprocate to further strengthen exchanges.
Senator Sarmad Ali thanked the ambassador for her support and emphasised how parliamentary exchanges can promote closer cooperation and parliamentary diplomacy. He expressed optimism that continued interaction between the Pakistan and Italy friendship groups will reinforce institutional ties and contribute to an enduring partnership.
The luncheon was attended by 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 the Chairman Senate & Ambassador ISC Misbah Khar, reflecting cross-party interest in consolidating Pakistan Italy ties at both political and parliamentary levels.
