Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif today praised the invaluable contributions of Overseas Pakistanis in strengthening country’s economy and enhancing its image on the global level.
Addressing a gathering of Overseas Pakistanis in London, the Prime Minister acknowledged the relentless efforts of Pakistani expatriates who, through their hard work across the globe, sent home over 38 billion dollars in remittances.
Sharif today announced that the Pakistan Air Force had recently shot down six Indian fighter jets in retaliation for an attack on civilians within Pakistan’s borders, during operations “Marka-e-Haq” and “Operation Bunyanum Marsoos.” The Prime Minister stated this action followed India’s refusal to participate in an international investigation into the Pahalgam incident. Sharif commended the leadership of Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, attributing the success to unity between political and military leadership, faith, and the armed forces” proficiency.
Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to peaceful dialogue with India regarding all unresolved matters, particularly Kashmir, but emphasized the necessity of discussions on equal terms. He also condemned Israel”s operations in Gaza, characterizing them as historical atrocities, and called upon the Muslim world to promote peace in the Middle East.
The Prime Minister also acknowledged the substantial financial contributions of overseas Pakistanis, highlighting their remittances exceeding $38 billion, which he credited with bolstering Pakistan”s economic stability. He further stressed the government”s objective to establish a robust, debt-free economy through sustainable expansion and self-sufficiency, emphasizing the significance of advanced education in fields like IT and Artificial Intelligence for equipping the nation’s youth.
Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar underscored the crucial role of overseas Pakistanis in strengthening the bond between Pakistan and the United Kingdom. He recounted the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) government”s efforts to stabilize the national economy upon assuming power in 2022, citing improvements in financial indicators. Dar emphasized national consensus across defense, economy, and international relations.
Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif echoed these sentiments, noting the nation”s internal and external challenges when the current government assumed office. He described remittances as a lifeline for the economy and deemed the Marka-e-Haq triumph a landmark achievement in Pakistan’s military chronicle.
Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development Chaudhry Salik Hussain praised the diaspora as a national asset and emphasized how recent events, including Marka-e-Haq and the Pakistan-Saudi Arabia defense pact, have elevated Pakistan”s global standing. He noted the current unity between Pakistan”s political and military leadership as a catalyst for tangible advancements.