Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath has urged the Italian government to expedite the resumption of work visas for Sri Lankans, following a temporary suspension.
During a meeting with Italian Ambassador to Sri Lanka Damiano Francovigh, the ambassador assured that Italy is reviewing its work visa policies for several countries, including Sri Lanka, and that the suspension is temporary. The Ambassodor agreed to convey Sri Lanka’s request to resume the issuance of work visas to the Italian authorities.
The discussion also covered the recognition of Sri Lankan driving licenses in Italy, with both parties agreeing to fast-track the signing of a related agreement. Additionally, the two countries plan to finalize several pending bilateral agreements, including one on migration and mobility cooperation, the Foreign Minister’s office said.
Ambassador Francovigh noted that diplomatic relations between Sri Lanka and Italy date back to 1952, with Italy ranking as Sri Lanka’s fifth-largest export market. He also highlighted that over 200,000 Sri Lankans currently reside in Italy and that 38,709 Italian tourists visited Sri Lanka in 2024.
Minister Herath expressed appreciation for Italy’s continued support and emphasized the need to strengthen economic, cultural, and tourism ties between the two nations. (Newswire)