ISLAMABAD: Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development Chaudhry Salik Hussain on Tuesday met with Ambassador of France to Pakistan Nicolas Galey and discussed ways to enhance bilateral cooperation in key sectors such as labour migration, human resource development and overseas employment.

During the meeting, Minister Salik emphasised the invaluable contributions of overseas Pakistanis to the national economy and stressed the importance of further strengthening people-to-people ties between Pakistan and France.

He also highlighted the potential of Pakistanis to thrive in sectors of high demand in France, including hospitality, pharmaceuticals, telecommunications, shipbuilding and civil engineering.

“We want the French government to help train Pakistanis according to the specific demands of the French labour market. By equipping them with the right skills, we can ensure that they excel in these sectors while working in France,” the minister said.

He further added that “such targeted training programmes would not only address labour shortages in France but also provide a safe and legal pathway for Pakistanis to work abroad, preventing the tragic loss of life that many have suffered while attempting illegal immigration routes”.

The minister emphasised that this approach would be the most effective strategy to reduce illegal immigration and protect the lives and dignity of Pakistani citizens.

Ambassador Galey expressed France’s keen interest to explore opportunities for collaboration in Pakistan’s human resource development, particularly in vocational education and training.

He acknowledged the skilled Pakistani workforce and noted the potential for mutually beneficial partnerships in technology, innovation and other sectors.

Federal Minister Salik Hussain also reiterated the government’s firm commitment to ensuring the safety, rights and interests of overseas Pakistanis, promising to continue efforts to guarantee their safe and dignified employment abroad.

He appreciated France’s ongoing support for Pakistan’s development initiatives, especially in education and vocational training.

Published in Dawn, February 5th, 2025