ISLAMABAD: Over 350 Pakistanis are in jail in Italy for different reasons. About 353 Pakistanis, including three women, remain incarcerated in Italy. This stunning disclosure surfaced in a meeting of the Standing Committee of the National Assembly on Overseas Pakistanis. MNA Agha Rafiullah is the chairman of the committee.
The officials told the committee members that the Pakistani Embassy is providing ongoing legal and consular support to those affected. Committee members, however, stressed the importance of sustained diplomatic efforts and improved coordination to better address the concerns of overseas communities.
In conclusion, the committee called for stronger institutional mechanisms, clearer communication channels, and proactive engagement to protect the welfare of Pakistanis living abroad.
Meeting reviews concerns of Pakistanis in Europe
The officials further informed the National Assembly Standing Committee on Overseas Pakistanis that Spain’s new immigration policy will remain effective from April through June. Lawmakers reviewed the issue during a session chaired by Agha Rafiullah, focusing on challenges faced by Pakistani communities in Spain and Italy.
During the meeting, the chairman voiced concern over administrative gaps, noting that the post of Community Welfare Attaché in Spain has been vacant for six years. He stressed that the absence of an attaché has complicated assistance for expatriates.
Meanwhile, officials briefed the panel that nearly 140,000 Pakistanis currently reside in Spain. The chairman of the NA Committee directed authorities to upload contact details of Community Welfare Attachés on the official website to improve accessibility and communication for overseas citizens.
Updates on Italy-based Pakistanis and services
The committee also received updates on developments in Italy. Officials said 150 bodies of deceased Pakistanis were repatriated from Milan without any burden on the national exchequer. In addition, authorities have established a Nadra desk in Milan to facilitate documentation and identity-related services for the diaspora.
Overall, the committee urged stronger institutional support, improved communication channels, and proactive outreach to safeguard the welfare of Pakistanis living overseas.
