ISLAMABAD: In a significant move to honor the contributions of overseas Pakistanis, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced that civil awards will be given to those making substantial investments in Pakistan. This initiative aims to recognize the efforts of Pakistani expatriates who are not only acting as ambassadors for the country abroad but also playing a key role in its economic development.
During his speech, PM Shehbaz highlighted the strong participation of overseas Pakistanis in the recent Overseas Pakistanis Convention, underscoring the trust they have in the government’s policies. “We salute their sincerity, love for their homeland, and the sacrifices they continue to make,” he remarked, acknowledging their unwavering commitment to Pakistan.
The Prime Minister particularly commended the global success of overseas Pakistanis in various fields, including medicine, education, engineering, and consultancy. “These individuals have earned a respectable name for themselves and the country through their dedication, hard work, and integrity,” he added.
As part of the government’s commitment to recognizing their efforts, PM Shehbaz shared that overseas Pakistanis who have excelled in various sectors or contributed significantly in terms of remittances to the country will be awarded civil honors. This move is part of a broader strategy to highlight the valuable role played by the Pakistani diaspora in global industries.
Additionally, the government is working on resolving the issues faced by overseas Pakistanis by creating more investment opportunities within Pakistan that align with their professional expertise. This is expected to encourage greater involvement from the Pakistani diaspora in the country’s growth.
The Prime Minister reiterated that overseas Pakistanis are essential to Pakistan’s global image, referring to them as vital ambassadors. The meeting also reviewed ongoing initiatives to improve the facilities and strategies supporting Pakistanis living abroad, underscoring the government’s commitment to enhancing engagement with the global Pakistani community.
The high-level meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir, federal ministers, and senior government officials, all of whom discussed further steps to empower the overseas Pakistani community.