Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has expressed deep appreciation for the commitment, hard work, and sacrifices of overseas Pakistanis, calling them the “crown of the nation” and announcing a comprehensive package of reforms, incentives, and recognition for their contributions.

In an event attended by army chief General Asim Munir, federal ministers, governors, chief ministers, and parliamentarians, the prime minister acknowledged the critical role played by more than 10 million Pakistanis living abroad, particularly in supporting the national economy through record remittances. He also welcomed the Pakistanis attending the event from Europe, the US, Japan, Middle East, and other corners of the world.

“Overseas Pakistanis earn a halal livelihood in fields like medicine, education, and engineering. Though they live abroad, their hearts beat for Pakistan,” said PM Shehbaz.

He noted that overseas Pakistanis sent $4.1 billion in remittances this month alone, and this figure is expected to reach $30 billion by June 2025. The prime minister emphasized that these funds help the country meet billions in foreign exchange shortfalls, and stabilize the economy.

He further noted that overseas Pakistanis are making immense efforts, for which every possible step would be taken to approve their legitimate demands. He also lauded the efforts of the army chief, calling him a true and responsible Pakistani. "Whatever is in the heart of the army chief, he expresses it in words. Pakistan's defence is in safe hands," PM Sharif remarked.

Key announcements for overseas Pakistanis

To formally recognize their efforts, the PM announced that:

Civil awards will be conferred annually on August 14 to 15 overseas Pakistanis (men and women) who send the highest remittances or excel in their fields.
A 5% quota will be allocated in 10,000 seats for overseas children in federal chartered universities and a 15% quota in medical colleges, allowing 3,000 students to pursue medical education in Pakistan.
5,000 children of overseas Pakistanis will be provided skill-based training programs. Overseas Pakistanis will be dealt with as tax filers in the country.
Overseas women will be eligible for government jobs in Pakistan with a seven-year gap allowance to accommodate their career breaks.

Special courts, services, red carpet for investors

PM Shehbaz also announced the establishment of special courts in Islamabad to expedite cases related to overseas Pakistanis. Similar legislation is being prepared in Punjab and Balochistan, with amendments to civil courts also underway.

A dedicated office for overseas Pakistanis has been set up in the Federal Ombudsman’s Office, and a digital sale deed system launched by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz will soon be extended to Pakistani embassies abroad, starting with the High Commission in London.

“Pakistani diplomats must treat overseas Pakistanis with respect and appreciate their contributions. You are our ambassadors,” said the premier. He also invited overseas Pakistanis to bring their investments directly to his office, promising red carpet treatment for investors.

New airport and infrastructure projects

The PM confirmed the feasibility approval for an international airport in Mirpur, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, aimed at easing travel for overseas Pakistanis and boosting trade and tourism.

Additionally, the Green Channel system at airports -- originally introduced by Nawaz Sharif -- is set to become operational in the coming weeks to facilitate overseas travellers.

National security and economic resilience

Touching on national security, the prime minister praised the sacrifices of the armed forces in the war against terrorism and warned against those spreading terror through foreign funding. He acknowledged past policy failures and mistakes that allowed terrorism to return to settle in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, but vowed continued efforts to restore peace and denounced the "foul language" used against the martyred security personnel on social media.

“Our brave soldiers fight to protect your children while sacrificing their own. We must never forget their courage,” he added. He claimed that when terrorism was at its peak, 80,000 people were martyred, including doctors, labourers, and politicians.

PM Shehbaz also pointed to the economic recovery underway, crediting the efforts of the PDM government and overseas Pakistanis. He highlighted lower inflation, improving foreign exchange reserves, and steady economic growth, saying, “If we continue this teamwork, Pakistan can become one of the greatest powers in the world.”

He also called on the overseas Pakistanis to prove they were patriotic by responding to conspiracies against the country. "Promise that wherever you are, you will fight the enemies of Pakistan. We will fight the same way the Pakistan Army fights terrorists," PM Sharif insisted, adding that the previous rulers backed out of IMF agreements and hatched conspiracies against the country.

Support for Kashmir and Gaza

Reaffirming Pakistan’s unwavering support for Kashmiris and Palestinians, the prime minister said his government has always reflected the emotions of the people regarding Kashmir and Gaza, pledging continued political and diplomatic backing.