ISLAMABAD : The Ministry for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development is organizing Pakistan’s first-ever Overseas Pakistani Convention as a confidence-building measure to strengthen engagement with the diaspora today 13 April 2025 in Islamabad. It reflects the government’s recognition of overseas Pakistanis’ vital contributions to the nation’s progress.
Various public sector institutions including FIA, Passport Directorate, and other relevant departments will set up stalls at the event to directly address the grievances of overseas citizens.
Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif is set to hold his first interaction with overseas Pakistanis from April 13 , aiming to strengthen ties with the diaspora and explore ways to benefit from their expertise and investments in Pakistan’s economic growth and development, as part of his government’s efforts to boost foreign investment and economic diplomacy.
Here it is worth noting that the Overseas sent more than $13 Billion remittances in last three months to Pakistan as shared by none other than the Prime Minister of the country. It means they send at least $40 Billion to homeland annually BUT matter of fact is that they could never find any importance in Pakistan. They always faced hardships in Pakistan from the airports to their native towns where their properties are occupied and the state personnel always seek bribes from them.
Minister for Overseas Pakistanis, Chaudhry Salik Hussain warmly welcomed overseas Pakistani participants, terming them state guests at the inaugural session, emphasizing unity and cooperation. He lauded the overseas Pakistani community’s achievements and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to their welfare at the convention.
Minister admitted they have long been under-recognized despite playing a critical role globally. “They are not just Pakistanis living abroad but they are an integral part of our identity and national development,” he stated.
Answering a question, he clarified that the government is not funding the travel of attendees. “Every participant is paying for their own ticket. The misconception that public funds are being used is incorrect. Even if they were, supporting our own people is not something to be criticized,” he said.
He stressed that the event will remain completely non-political. “This convention is not a political rally or promotion but it is about national engagement and problem-solving,” he assured.
On the other side , State Minister Aun Chaudhry lashed out at PTI in a media talk specific on Overseas Convention. Aun Chaudhry said, “Instead of creating divide among the nation, they need to think about the country. Personal agendas should not override national interest.”
Minister Salik, answering a question, said that his approach has been inclusive and issue-focused. “I have made no distinctions based on political affiliations, for me, every overseas Pakistani matters,” he concluded.
Overseas Pakistanis are a precious asset and ambassadors of our country, contributing significantly to our nation’s progress. They play a vital role in Pakistan’s economic growth and development through valuable remittances, investments, and knowledge transfer.
Ch Salik Hussain emphasized the need for strong policies to support overseas Pakistanis, focusing on skill development initiatives and collaboration with external companies to establish state-of-the-art training institutes
Minister of State for Overseas Pakistanis Aun Chaudhry on Saturday said the Overseas Pakistani Convention is being organized purely in the national interest, beyond party lines or political affiliations.
Talking to a private news channel, he said that Pakistani Diaspora is our heroes, and the convention was to organize to honor their invaluable services.
“This convention belongs to every Pakistani, regardless of political association. Its slogan ‘Hum Pakistani – Hamara Pakistan’ reflects unity, pride, and national ownership,” he said.
Calling overseas Pakistanis the true ambassadors of the nation, the minister said their tireless work and the remittances they send sustain Pakistan’s economy. He said that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will make key announcements during the convention, to be held from April 13 to 15.
