ISLAMABAD, October 13, 2026: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar met European Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration Magnus Brunner in Islamabad to discuss strengthening cooperation between Pakistan and the European Union (EU), with a particular focus on migration and mobility.
During the meeting, both sides reviewed opportunities to expand cooperation under the Pakistan–EU Strategic Engagement Plan (2019). Dar expressed satisfaction with the positive momentum in bilateral relations and emphasised the importance of achieving practical outcomes that benefit both sides.
Pakistan Seeks More Legal Migration Opportunities
A key issue discussed during the meeting was the need to create more legal migration pathways for Pakistani skilled workers and professionals seeking employment in European countries.
Dar said Pakistan’s efforts to control irregular migration should be accompanied by greater opportunities for people to travel and work abroad through legal channels. Expanding these pathways could help Pakistani professionals access international employment opportunities while supporting European labour-market needs.
The discussions highlighted the importance of safe, orderly and regular migration as part of the broader Pakistan–EU relationship.
Pakistan Highlights Efforts Against Illegal Migration
Dar briefed the European commissioner on Pakistan’s measures to curb irregular migration and combat migrant smuggling and human trafficking.
These efforts form part of Pakistan’s wider cooperation with international partners to address illegal migration networks and reduce the risks faced by people attempting dangerous journeys through unauthorised routes.
Commissioner Brunner acknowledged Pakistan’s progress in controlling irregular migration and recognised the potential for expanding legal migration opportunities.
Pakistan–EU Strategic Partnership
The meeting took place within the framework of the Pakistan–EU Strategic Engagement Plan, established in 2019. Migration and mobility are among the areas covered by this framework, which provides a basis for cooperation on issues of shared interest.
Both sides reiterated their commitment to strengthening bilateral engagement. Dar expressed hope that Brunner’s visit would lead to practical steps that would benefit Pakistan and the European Union.
The discussions also reflected a shared interest in improving coordination on migration-related challenges while encouraging lawful movement between the two sides.
Read more similar news in our local category.
What the Talks Could Mean for Pakistani Workers
The emphasis on legal migration opportunities could be significant for Pakistani professionals seeking employment in Europe. However, the meeting announcement did not specify any new visa programme, recruitment scheme, quota or immediate change to existing immigration rules.
Any future opportunities will depend on the arrangements developed by Pakistan and the EU, as well as the immigration and employment requirements of individual European countries.
The meeting marks another step in Pakistan’s efforts to deepen ties with the EU while seeking more accessible legal routes for skilled workers and professionals.
If you want to read more news like this visit supernews.pk