Italy Celebrates Armed-Forces-Day in Pakistan, Strengthening Defence-Ties, Promoting Global-Peace
Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif Highlights Robust Defence Ties with Italy
Italian Ambassador Ciarlatani Appreciates Pakistani Hospitality, Calls for Stronger Bilateral Cooperation
Islamabad – 5 November, 2026 (Adnan Hameed) : The Defence office of the Embassy of Italy in Islamabad hosted a reception to celebrate Italy’s National Unity and Armed Forces Day, attended by senior Pakistani government officials, military leadership, diplomats, defence attachĂ©s and distinguished guests.
Minister for Defence of Pakistan, Khawaja Muhammad Asif, attended the reception as the Chief Guest. The event featured addresses by the Italian Ambassador Ugo Ciarlatani and Colonel Paolo Stella, Defence Attaché of the Embassy of Italy.
Addressing the reception as a Chief Guest, Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif extended heartfelt congratulations to the Government and people of Italy on behalf of the Government and people of Pakistan on the occasion of Italian National Unity and Armed Forces Day.
The Defence Minister expressed his satisfaction over the presence of a large Pakistani diaspora in Italy, appreciating their positive contributions to Italian society. He noted that Pakistanis living and working in Italy were contributing to the country’s society and economy, maintaining strong family ties while becoming an integral part of Italian culture and serving as responsible citizens.
Khawaja Muhammad Asif expressed hope that the longstanding friendship between Pakistan and Italy would continue to grow and become stronger in the coming years. He also highlighted the robust defence cooperation between the two countries, emphasizing the importance of further strengthening bilateral collaboration in the defence sector.
The Italian Ambassador to Pakistan Ugo Ciarlatani, addressed the distinguished gathering, highlighting the significance of Italy’s National Unity and Armed Forces Day and the importance of the longstanding relationship between Italy and Pakistan.
The Ambassador, who arrived in Pakistan a few months ago, expressed his appreciation for the warm hospitality and kindness extended to him by the people of Pakistan. He highlighted the shared interests between Italy and Pakistan and emphasized the importance of strengthening political cooperation and bilateral relations. He also underscored the significance of international peace, stability and resolving global and regional issues through dialogue, diplomacy and mutual understanding.
Earlier, Colonel Paolo Stella, Defence AttachĂ© of the Embassy of Italy addressed the reception, highlights the defence ties with Pakistan. In a memorable expression of goodwill and friendship, Colonel Paolo Stella enthusiastically chanted “Pakistan Zindabad!”, receiving appreciation from the gathering.
At the conclusion of the reception, Federal Minister for Defence Khawaja Muhammad Asif joined the Italian Ambassador Ugo Ciarlatani and Colonel Paolo Stella, Defence Attaché in cutting the commemorative cake, symbolizing friendship, goodwill and the enduring bonds between Pakistan and Italy.
The reception served as an important occasion to celebrate the longstanding diplomatic relations, people-to-people connections and defence cooperation between Pakistan and Italy.
