Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday announced a wide-ranging package of incentives, structural reforms, and recognition initiatives for overseas Pakistanis, acknowledging their vital role in the country’s economic stability and global image.

Addressing a high-profile gathering in Islamabad attended by Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir, federal ministers, provincial governors, chief ministers, parliamentarians, and delegations of overseas Pakistanis from various regions, including the US, UK, Europe, the Middle East, and Japan, the Prime Minister hailed expatriates as the “crown of the nation.”

“Overseas Pakistanis earn halal livelihoods across the world in fields like medicine, education, and engineering. Despite living abroad, PM Shehbaz expressed that their hearts continue to beat for Pakistan.

Record remittances and economic contributions

The Prime Minister revealed that Pakistan received $4.1 billion in remittances during the last month alone, with the total figure expected to reach $30 billion by June 2025. He credited these remittances for easing the country’s foreign exchange pressures and playing a key role in stabilizing the economy.

“These funds are not just transactions; they reflect the sacrifices, loyalty, and patriotism of millions of Pakistanis working abroad,” he said.

Key announcements for overseas Pakistanis

To recognize and facilitate overseas communities, PM Shehbaz Sharif announced the following measures:

• Annual civil awards to be conferred on 15 overseas Pakistanis (men and women) on August 14 based on high remittances or excellence in their professional fields.
• 5% of children of overseas Pakistanis' quota in federally chartered universities.
• 15% reserved seats in medical colleges for overseas Pakistanis, which will allow about 3,000 students to pursue medicine studies in Pakistan.
• 5,000 foreign children are to be provided skill-based training under government schemes.
• Foreign women to be provided public sector jobs with relaxation in 7-year career gap for their employment breaks.
• Green Channel system at airports to become operational in the next few weeks for foreign travelers.

Legal reforms and complaint redressal

In a significant move, the Prime Minister announced the establishment of special courts in Islamabad and Punjab to fast-track cases involving overseas Pakistanis, especially related to property disputes and civil matters. He added that similar legislation is being developed in Balochistan, with necessary amendments being introduced in civil courts.

A dedicated cell for overseas Pakistanis has also been set up at the Federal Ombudsman’s Office to handle complaints and expedite resolution.

Digital land records & embassy integration

The digital land record system launched in Punjab under Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s supervision will now be extended abroad, beginning with the Pakistan High Commission in London, to prevent fraud and ease property verification for overseas citizens.

PM Shehbaz also instructed Pakistani diplomats to treat overseas communities with dignity and honor, calling them “true ambassadors of the country.”

The Prime Minister confirmed that the feasibility study for a new international airport in Mirpur, Azad Kashmir, has been approved. The project aims to facilitate overseas Kashmiris and boost trade and tourism in the region.

Investment opportunities and national security

Calling on the diaspora to invest in Pakistan, PM Shehbaz said overseas investors will be welcomed with red carpet treatment and invited them to bring their proposals directly to the Prime Minister’s Office.

On national security, he praised the armed forces’ sacrifices in the fight against terrorism and condemned elements spreading unrest through foreign-funded propaganda. He noted that over 80,000 Pakistanis, including civilians and security personnel, were martyred during the peak of terrorism. The Prime Minister also commended Army Chief General Asim Munir, saying, “Pakistan’s defence is in responsible hands.”

Solidarity with Palestine and Kashmir

PM Shehbaz reaffirmed Pakistan’s consistent diplomatic and political support for the Kashmir and Gaza causes, emphasizing that the government reflects the people’s emotions and stands by oppressed communities globally. “Pakistan will continue raising its voice for the rights of Kashmiris and Palestinians,” he added.

PM Shehbaz expressed optimism about Pakistan’s economic recovery, noting falling inflation, improving foreign reserves, and positive growth trends. “With unity and teamwork, Pakistan has the potential to become one of the leading powers in the world,” he said.