Pakistan, Italy to promote parliamentary cooperation

ISLAMABAD: Senate Chairman Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani on Thursday held a productive virtual meeting with the President of the Chamber of Deputies of the Italian Republic, Lorenzo Fontana, through a Zoom call.

According to the Senate Secretariat, the discussion centered around strengthening bilateral relations, enhancing parliamentary cooperation, and promoting mutual understanding between the two nations.

The Senate chairman underscored the longstanding and cordial relations between Pakistan and Italy, rooted in shared values, mutual respect, and multifaceted cooperation. He highlighted that Italy remains a valued partner of Pakistan within the European Union, particularly in the domains of trade, education, migration, and cultural exchange.

Recalling his earlier visit to Italy, the Senate chairman fondly remembered attending the inauguration ceremony of Pope Leo XIV, terming it a moment of immense honour and a reflection of Pakistan’s respect for interfaith harmony and global dialogue.

He extended an invitation to President Fontana to participate in the upcoming Inter-Parliamentary Speakers’ Conference (ISC) being hosted by the Senate of Pakistan next month. The Italian President of the Chamber of Deputies graciously accepted the invitation and said he is looking forward to visiting Pakistan to participate in the conference and intends to foster further inter-parliamentary engagement and exploring new avenues of collaboration.

Lorenzo Fontana appreciated Pakistan’s constructive role at the global level and acknowledged the significant contributions of the Pakistani community in Italy, which serves as a vital bridge between the two nations.

Both dignitaries agreed to maintain close institutional contact between the Parliaments of Pakistan and Italy, exchange parliamentary delegations, and enhance cooperation in areas of mutual interest including climate resilience, trade facilitation, and cultural diplomacy.

Senate Chairman Yousuf Raza Gilani reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to deepening its partnership with Italy and appreciated the support extended by the Italian Parliament in strengthening democratic and people-to-people ties.

The meeting concluded with a shared resolve to continue dialogue and collaboration for the mutual benefit of both countries and their people.