By Muhammad Irfan Siddiqui
Islamabad — The historic Overseas Pakistanis Convention has commenced in the capital city of Islamabad with great zeal, and will continue until April 15. More than 1,000 overseas Pakistanis from across the globe have joined the convention, while thousands of others could not attend due to time constraints and travel logistics.
This convention reflects the government of Pakistan’s serious commitment towards its overseas community. After a long hiatus, this gathering has not only united Pakistanis living abroad on one platform but has also visibly weakened the overseas influence of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). The continued rise in remittances and growing trust of overseas Pakistanis in the government has transformed the overall environment.
The successful organization of the convention is credited to the key efforts of OPF Chairman Syed Qamar Raza, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, and Punjab Overseas Commission Chairman Barrister Amjad Malik. Their dedication has provided expatriate Pakistanis with a unique opportunity to reconnect with their homeland.
A prominent delegation from Japan, led by President of PML-N Japan Malik Noor Awan, also participated in the convention. They effectively highlighted the issues and proposals concerning the Pakistani community in Japan. Malik Noor Awan said, “We have come from Japan with great passion to inform the government about the services and challenges faced by overseas Pakistanis.”
Equally significant was the special participation of the leadership of the International Association of Pakistani Journalists (IAPJ), including President Shahi Chauhan and Chairman Wasim Chaudhry, along with other distinguished members. Their presence underscored the vital role of overseas media in strengthening the connection between expatriates and Pakistan, and added a strong voice to the convention’s proceedings.
The convention includes multiple sessions addressing overseas community issues, opportunities for increasing remittances, investment prospects, and government facilitation. Analysts believe this convention will not only positively influence government policies but also instill new hope among overseas Pakistanis.
Notably, former Ambassador-at-Large for Japan and Korea, Chaudhry Asif Mahmood, is also attending the convention, with an important meeting expected with the Army Chief. Furthermore, President of PPP Japan Shahid Majeed, renowned businessman Asad Nawaz, and from Singapore, leading shipping personality Abdul Latif Siddiqui, have also graced the convention with their presence.
Adding to the excitement, the Prime Minister and Army Chief have hosted a special dinner for the participants, creating an atmosphere of enthusiasm and warmth. This grand gesture has won the hearts of overseas Pakistanis and underscored their significance at the highest levels of the government.
Several more important meetings and consultative sessions are scheduled for today and tomorrow, featuring senior government officials and representatives of the overseas community.
