ISLAMABAD: October 13, 2026: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar on Tuesday met European Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration Magnus Brunner in Islamabad to discuss ways to strengthen Pakistan–European Union cooperation on migration and mobility, with particular emphasis on expanding legal migration opportunities for Pakistani skilled workers and professionals. Recalling recent engagements between Pakistan and the European Union, Ishaq Dar expressed satisfaction with the positive momentum in bilateral relations. Both sides reviewed avenues for enhancing cooperation on migration and mobility, a key pillar of the Pakistan–EU Strategic Engagement Plan, 2019. The deputy prime minister highlighted Pakistan’s sustained efforts to curb irregular migration and combat migrant smuggling and human trafficking. He emphasised that these measures should be complemented by greater opportunities for legal migration, enabling Pakistani skilled workers and professionals to access employment opportunities through regular and recognized channels. Commissioner Magnus Brunner appreciated Pakistan’s progress in addressing irregular migration and acknowledged the potential for expanding legal migration pathways. The discussions underscored the importance of continued engagement and cooperation between Pakistan and the European Union on migration-related matters Reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to further strengthening its partnership with the European Union, Ishaq Dar expressed hope that the commissioner’s visit would translate into practical outcomes beneficial to both sides.
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