Hon. Minister Manusha Nanayakkara of the Ministry of Labour and Foreign Employment welcomed His Excellency Damiano Francovigh, the Italian Ambassador to Sri Lanka, for a meeting today to strengthen bilateral relations and address labor migration concerns.
The focal point of their discussion was the renewal of the bilateral Cooperation on Labor Migration agreement between the Government of the Italian Republic and the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka. A noteworthy outcome of this dialogue was the emphasis on establishing a training center, generously sponsored by the Italian Government. This center aims to provide pre-departure training for Sri Lankans seeking employment opportunities in Italy.
Additionally, Minister Nanayakkara addressed concerns related to Italy’s Job Quota system, highlighting the challenges faced by Sri Lankan job seekers in securing sponsors due to Italy’s unique referral-based quota system. His Excellency Francovigh clarified the absence of recruitment agencies in Italy, setting its job market apart from many other nations.
The meeting also delved into issues regarding the Family Reunion Visa process for Sri Lankans. Minister Nanayakkara pointed out the difficulties faced by Sri Lankan citizens, including prolonged delays, DNA requirements, and external interventions during the visa appointment process. The Minister commended the Ambassador for his proactive stance in curbing external interferences in these processes.
In response, His Excellency Francovigh discussed Italy’s challenges in obtaining authenticated certificates from Sri Lankan authorities.
Described as a “productive” and “fruitful” meeting, it also involved the participation of the deputy ambassador of the Italian Embassy in Sri Lanka, underscoring the importance of these discussions and the commitment of both nations to nurturing their partnership.
