PM Shehbaz praises overseas Pakistanis, announces blue passports

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, speaking at the Overseas Pakistanis Global Foundation ceremony in Islamabad on Tuesday, expressed heartfelt appreciation for the contributions of overseas Pakistanis to the country’s development and global standing.

“I sincerely thank the overseas Pakistanis present here today,” he stated, acknowledging their efforts in bringing pride to the nation. He highlighted that remittances from expatriates have risen by 30%, significantly strengthening the national treasury and stabilizing foreign exchange reserves.

Reaffirming the government’s commitment, Shehbaz Sharif stated, “The government and the nation salute overseas Pakistanis.” He emphasized the crucial role of their investments in boosting the economy, pointing out that property prices surge when overseas Pakistanis invest in real estate.

The Prime Minister assured that the government has taken concrete measures to address long-standing challenges faced by the overseas community, particularly property-related disputes.

“The overseas department in Punjab, under the leadership of the chief minister, is actively working to resolve these issues,” he noted. Shehbaz Sharif pledged to ensure the protection of their rights, stating, “I will not rest until overseas Pakistanis receive justice.”

In a significant announcement, the premier revealed that blue passports would be issued to overseas Pakistanis, granting them enhanced recognition and privileges.

He also spoke about reviving the Green Channel initiative, which was originally introduced by former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to facilitate overseas Pakistanis. Shehbaz Sharif assured that its smooth operation would be restored, saying, “We will not let the Green Channel turn into yellow or red.”

Addressing national security, the Prime Minister condemned the resurgence of terrorism, attributing it to the negligence of previous governments. “By 2018, terrorism had been eradicated from Pakistan through the sacrifices of 80,000 Pakistanis, including civilians, officers, and soldiers,” he stated. He criticized a past government’s decision to allow terrorists back into the country, calling it a betrayal of the nation.

However, he reiterated his government’s determination to eliminate terrorism once again. “We will ensure terrorism is wiped out, and Pakistan remains safe. The sacrifices made will not be in vain,” he vowed.

Additionally, Shehbaz Sharif stressed the importance of engaging the youth. He endorsed the idea of a Youth Festival and announced plans to collaborate with the information minister to make it a reality.

With a diaspora of over 10 million Pakistanis, the Prime Minister’s remarks highlighted their essential role in shaping the country’s future.