VIENNA, Feb 16 (APP):Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Monday called for a new phase of economic, cultural, and strategic cooperation between Pakistan and Austria while addressing the Austrian cabinet and senior government officials in Vienna.
Speaking to Federal Chancellor Christian Stocker, members of the Austrian government, and legislative representatives, Prime Minister Sharif conveyed warm greetings from the people of Pakistan and expressed appreciation for Austria’s continued engagement with Islamabad.
“It is a great pleasure to meet you again,” the prime minister said, recalling their discussions last year in New York. He noted that he had been particularly impressed by the Chancellor’s interest in strengthening bilateral ties.
Reflecting on earlier visits to Austria as a young tourist, Prime Minister Sharif spoke warmly of traveling to Salzburg, widely known as the birthplace of Mozart, and spending time in Vienna, where he experienced the country’s historic architecture and renowned coffee culture.
He also highlighted the importance of cultural cooperation in fostering goodwill between the two nations, referencing collaborative cultural initiatives supported by Austrian partners. Such efforts, he said, play a vital role in deepening people-to-people connections.
Prime Minister Sharif emphasized that Pakistan is open for business and ready to embark on a new chapter in its partnership with Austria. He noted that his administration has taken significant steps to improve Pakistan’s investment climate and encouraged Austrian firms to explore the country’s vast economic potential across various sectors.
The prime minister also expressed sincere appreciation for Austria’s support within the European Union framework, particularly regarding the Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP), which has facilitated Pakistani exports to European markets.
Prime Minister Sharif proposed expanding cooperation into newly emerging sectors. He identified skilled labor mobility, vocational training, and workforce development as key pillars for future collaboration.
He suggested structured pathways to allow qualified Pakistani professionals access to Austria’s labor market while jointly addressing the challenge of illegal migration through coordinated policies and legal channels.
Describing Pakistan as a country blessed with majestic mountains and breathtaking landscapes, the prime minister invited Austrian support and investment in tourism and infrastructure development.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif thanked Chancellor Stocker and members of the Austrian cabinet for what he described as constructive discussions. He expressed confidence that Pakistan–Austria relations would continue to grow stronger in the years ahead, anchored in trade, cultural exchange, and strategic partnership.