PM Shehbaz seeks deeper cooperation in talks with Austrian leadership
Pakistan
Addressing the Pakistan-Austria Business Forum, he highlighted that Pakistan was working closely with Austria, France, and Germany to jointly curb illegal immigration
VIENNA (Dunya News) - Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday underscored the long-standing friendly relations between Pakistan and Austria.
Addressing the Pakistan-Austria Business Forum in Vienna, he highlighted that Pakistan was working closely with its European partners — including Austria, France, and Germany — to jointly curb illegal immigration.
Emphasising that Pakistan was “absolutely” against illegal immigration, he assured participants that his government was determined to bring the practice to a grinding halt through coordinated efforts.
At the same time, the prime minister offered a constructive pathway forward, stating that Pakistan would meet Europe’s demand for skilled labour through internationally certified training programmes tailored to European requirements.
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif was presented Guard of Honour upon arrival in Austria's Federal Chancellery, Vienna.#PMShehbazInAustria pic.twitter.com/dShZgXvxcR
— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) February 16, 2026
He noted that 60 per cent of Pakistan’s population comprised young people who required modern skills, including access to laptops, artificial intelligence, and IT-led initiatives.
The prime minister also outlined key sectors where Pakistan and Austria were proactively engaged, particularly in mining and minerals as well as renewable energy.
Referring to his meetings with Austrian leadership, he expressed his resolve to take ongoing discussions to their logical conclusion, paving the way for enhanced economic cooperation and mutually beneficial partnerships.
Also Read: PM Shehbaz reaches Austria on two-day official visit
Earlier, a formal welcome ceremony was held in honour of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at the Austrian Chancellery in Vienna during his two-day official visit to Austria.
Upon his arrival, the prime minister was warmly received by Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker.
The national anthems of both countries were played, and a guard of honour was presented by the Austrian honour guards.
The two leaders introduced their respective delegations before proceeding to a meeting, followed by delegation-level talks aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation.
