VIENNA: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday said that Pakistan was working closely with European partners to curb illegal immigration and combat human smuggling networks.
The premier made the remarks while addressing the Pakistan-Austria Business Forum in Vienna, where he arrived on Sunday for a two-day official visit.
PM Shehbaz expressed Pakistan’s resolve to tackle illegal immigration in collaboration with countries such as Austria, Germany and France, stressing that human smugglers and criminal groups continue to exploit vulnerable individuals seeking better futures abroad.
Every year, dozens of Pakistanis lose their lives during dangerous migration attempts, often falling victim to these illegal networks.
Speaking at the forum, the prime minister underscored Pakistan’s commitment to boosting bilateral economic cooperation with Austria, highlighting the country’s potential in sectors including renewable energy, agriculture, mining and human resource development.
He noted that Pakistan remained an agrarian country with more than 60% of its population living in rural areas, and called upon Austrian expertise to enhance value-addition in citrus and other agricultural produce for export markets.
The premier also invited Austrian investors to explore opportunities in mining, tourism and engineering sectors, citing Austria’s world-class capabilities in engineering, renewable energy, environmental technology and advanced manufacturing.
He encouraged Austrian companies to participate in Pakistan’s renewable energy projects, grid modernisation initiatives and energy development plans.
PM Shehbaz extended a personal invitation to Austrian business leaders to visit Pakistan, assuring them of investment opportunities and showcasing the country’s scenic landscapes and cultural heritage.
He said both nations shared a longstanding friendship rooted in historical ties and decades of Austrian business engagement in Pakistan, particularly in areas such as cable car installations, minerals and renewable energy technology.
Although economic activity has declined in recent years for various reasons, the prime minister acknowledged that Austrian firms have made impactful contributions in Pakistan.
He also noted that his discussions with the Austrian Federal Chancellor were warm, fruitful and productive, with both leaders agreeing to follow up on talks to strengthen cooperation further.
Highlighting Pakistan’s demographic advantage, PM Shehbaz said nearly 60% of the country’s 240 million population was young and eager to contribute to global technological and industrial value chains.
“We are working to equip our youth with modern training, including laptops, AI skills, IT-led education, vocational and technical programmes at federal and provincial levels,” he said.
The premier added that Pakistan was ready to supply internationally certified skilled labour to European markets in response to growing demand.
He also announced Pakistan’s intention to host the EU-Pakistan Business Forum in Islamabad at the end of April, with Austrian companies expected to participate, further strengthening economic collaboration between the two countries.