Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development, Chaudhry Salik Hussain, met with the French Ambassador to Pakistan, Nicolas Galey, on Tuesday to discuss ways to enhance bilateral cooperation in key areas, including labour migration, human resource development, and overseas employment.
During the meeting in Islamabad, Salik Hussain emphasized the significant contributions of overseas Pakistanis to the national economy and underscored the need to strengthen people-to-people connections between Pakistan and France. He pointed out the vast potential for Pakistani workers in high-demand industries in France, such as hospitality, pharmaceuticals, telecommunications, shipbuilding, and civil engineering. The minister highlighted the importance of equipping Pakistani workers with the necessary skills tailored to the needs of the French labour market, requesting support from the French government in facilitating specialized training programs. “By providing Pakistanis with relevant training, we can ensure that they excel in these sectors while contributing effectively to France’s workforce,” he stated.
He further stressed that such skill development initiatives would not only help fill labour shortages in France but also provide Pakistani workers with secure and legal employment opportunities abroad. “These targeted programs would offer a safe alternative to illegal immigration, preventing the tragic loss of lives that has occurred due to dangerous migration routes,” he added.
Ambassador Galey welcomed the idea of deeper collaboration in human resource development, particularly in vocational training and education. He acknowledged Pakistan’s talented workforce and recognized the potential for mutually beneficial partnerships in fields such as technology and innovation.
Reaffirming the government’s dedication to safeguarding the rights and well-being of overseas Pakistanis, Minister Salik Hussain assured continued efforts to ensure their safe and dignified employment abroad. He also expressed appreciation for France’s ongoing support in Pakistan’s development initiatives, particularly in the fields of education and vocational training, as highlighted in an official press release.
