Italian Envoy Meets Chief Justice of Pakistan to Enhance Judicial Cooperation

Marilina Armellin, the Ambassador of Italy to Pakistan, paid a courtesy visit to the Chief Justice of Pakistan, Justice Yahya Afridi, at the Supreme Court of Pakistan. The meeting focused on strengthening judicial cooperation, legal reforms, and commercial dispute resolution between the two nations.

During the discussion, Chief Justice Afridi highlighted Pakistan’s constitutional framework and the trichotomy of power among the Legislature, Executive, and Judiciary. He emphasized the Judiciary’s role in ensuring legal interpretation, transparency, and rule of law.

Ambassador Armellin acknowledged the structural similarities between Italy and Pakistan’s legal systems, emphasizing the potential for mutual learning through judicial exchange programs. She expressed interest in collaboration on judicial education, legal best practices, and commercial law advancements.

Justice Afridi introduced Pakistan’s new initiative—the Commercial Litigation Corridor (CLC)—designed to expedite commercial and trade dispute resolutions. The CLC will feature:

✔ Dedicated commercial courts at the district level
✔ Specialized commercial benches at the High Courts and Supreme Court
✔ Fast-tracked dispute resolution mechanisms

“This initiative will strengthen contract enforcement, boost economic confidence, and encourage foreign investment in Pakistan,” Justice Afridi stated.

The National Judicial Policy Making Committee (NJPMC) will collaborate with development partners to implement judicial reforms. The Chief Justice assured that bilateral exchanges and legal partnerships with Italy will be pursued to improve legal practices and efficiency.

Ambassador Armellin welcomed the Commercial Litigation Corridor, stressing that a robust judicial system will attract foreign investors and promote economic stability. She also highlighted the strong presence of the Pakistani diaspora in Italy, advocating for closer people-to-people ties between both nations.

As a gesture of goodwill, Justice Afridi presented a souvenir to Ambassador Armellin, who reciprocated with a memento, symbolizing the growing partnership between Pakistan and Italy.

Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening judicial cooperation, promoting transparent legal practices, and fostering international investment opportunities.