Karachi: Emirates, the leading global airline, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Consulate of Italy in Karachi to enhance diplomatic travel and strengthen cultural and business connections between Pakistan and Italy.

The agreement was formalized during a signing ceremony at the Italian Consulate in Karachi, attended by Mohammed Alhashmi, Emirates' Vice President for Pakistan, and Fabrizio Bielli, the Consul of Italy.

As part of the MOU, Emirates will serve as the preferred airline for official travel by the Italian Consulate, offering exclusive benefits such as preferential fares, cargo rates, and additional baggage allowances to diplomatic passengers.

The airline will also explore opportunities to support diplomatic and cultural events organized by the Italian Consulate. In return, the Consulate will recommend Emirates to travelers engaging with it for journeys to and from Italy.

Mohammed Alhashmi emphasized the importance of the agreement, noting the longstanding ties between Emirates and Italy, a market the airline has served for over three decades. He highlighted the shared commitment to enhancing cultural and economic ties.

Fabrizio Bielli expressed optimism about the partnership's potential benefits for the diplomatic community and the strengthened ties between Italy and Pakistan.

Emirates maintains a significant presence in both countries, with over 50 weekly flights to five Pakistani cities and 42 weekly flights to major Italian destinations, playing a key role in connecting the two nations to the global landscape.