Latest news with #OverseasPakistanisFoundation
Business Recorder
3 days ago
- Politics
- Business Recorder
CM vows to resolve issues facing overseas Pakistanis
LAHORE: Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif met MD Overseas Pakistanis Foundation Afzal Bhatti, here on Monday and directed all government departments as well as district administration to take steps to resolve the issues of overseas Pakistanis as soon as possible. During the meeting, it was decided to appoint focal persons for the overseas Pakistanis in the Chief Minister's Office, Chief Secretary's Office and IG's Office. The focal persons of the Punjab government will play their effective and vibrant role in resolving the issues and problems pertaining to the overseas Pakistanis. On this occasion, it was agreed to take prompt measures to make the Overseas Pakistanis Commission Punjab active and dynamic. The Chief Minister directed to resolve the issues of overseas Pakistanis on a priority basis. MD Overseas Pakistanis Foundation Afzaal Bhatti gave a detailed briefing about the issues and matters of overseas Pakistanis belonging to Punjab. He also apprised the CM about the issues of OPF housing societies and schools. The Chief Minister directed to resolve the problems of Overseas Pakistanis without any delay. She outlined that the current government is taking all possible steps to resolve the problems of Overseas Pakistanis at the earliest. She said that overseas Pakistanis are the valuable asset of our dear homeland. MD Overseas Pakistanis Foundation congratulated Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif on the success of Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos. He emphasized that all Overseas Pakistanis stand shoulder to shoulder with the government and the Pakistan Army. He highlighted that the overseas Pakistanis celebrated the glorious victory in the war against India across the globe. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
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Express Tribune
3 days ago
- Politics
- Express Tribune
Govt to appoint focal persons for expatriates
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has decided to appoint focal persons for overseas Pakistanis in the CM's, chief secretary's and inspector general of police's offices. It was decided during a meeting between the chief minister and Overseas Pakistanis Foundation (OPF) Managing Director Afzal Bhatti that the focal persons of the Punjab government would play an effective role for solving the problems pertaining to the expatriates. It was agreed to take prompt measures to make the Punjab Overseas Pakistanis Commission active. The chief minister directed all government departments and the district administrations to take steps to resolve the issues of overseas Pakistanis as soon as possible. The MD gave a detailed briefing about matters pertaining to overseas Pakistanis belonging to Punjab, including issues related to the OPF housing societies and schools. Afzaal Bhatti highlighted that the overseas Pakistanis had celebrated the victory in the war against India across the globe. She stated that the winning candidate would come up to the expectations of the people of Sambrial who have reposed their trust in her leadership.
Muscat Daily
27-05-2025
- Politics
- Muscat Daily
Pakistan honours its citizen in Oman for social service
Muscat – A Pakistani social worker based in Oman has been recognised by the government of Pakistan for years of quiet service supporting expatriates in distress – work he continues without an official title or organisational backing. Shaandar Ali Shah Bukhari, originally from Pakistan, received a Certificate of Appreciation from the Overseas Pakistanis Foundation, an agency under the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development. The certificate acknowledges his commitment to assisting destitute expatriates, particularly those caught in legal or financial crises within Oman's prison system. Over the years, Bukhari has helped repatriate more than 150 prisoners, including not only Pakistanis but also nationals of Bangladesh and Afghanistan. He also coordinates the return of deceased expatriates and runs a small wheelchair distribution initiative for the differently-abled. His efforts are self-managed, with no formal structure or fundraising mechanism. 'This honour means a lot, not just for me, but for every volunteer and well-wisher who stands up for those who have no voice,' Bukhari said. 'Helping prisoners and the needy is not just a social responsibility – it is a spiritual duty.' He credits the Pakistani embassy in Muscat and the broader expatriate community for their continued support. 'No humanitarian effort succeeds in isolation. It's always a team effort, driven by compassion and backed by belief,' he said. His repatriation work involves close coordination with legal teams and community members. In cases involving prisoners, the cost of return tickets is channelled through a local travel agency, Travel House, to ensure transparency. The certificate, issued by the chairman of the Overseas Pakistanis Foundation, is not the first recognition for Bukhari. He has also received the American Red Cross Life Saving Award, appreciation letters from governors in Pakistan, and the Outstanding Citizen of Pakistan Award. His work has been officially acknowledged by the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resources Development. Still, Bukhari says he draws strength not from awards, but from the people he helps. 'I may be doing this as a one-man show, but I never feel alone. The prayers and trust of the community are my strength,' he said.
Express Tribune
14-04-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
Sadiq reaffirms parliament's support for overseas Pakistanis
National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq on Monday reaffirmed Parliament's collective resolve to address the challenges faced by overseas Pakistanis, stressing that both the government and opposition remain united on the matter. Speaking at the inaugural Overseas Pakistanis Convention, he said that every member of the National Assembly, regardless of political party, fully supports the cause of the overseas community. "Our fellow Pakistanis living abroad are the true ambassadors of our country," he said. "Your support and partnership are crucial for building a better future for everyone." He described overseas Pakistanis as the backbone of the nation, playing a key role in connecting Pakistan with the world. "Your actions and words shape how the world sees our country," he added. The speaker appreciated the Overseas Pakistanis Foundation for launching a new initiative to address the challenges faced by expatriates. He urged overseas Pakistanis to share their concerns so the government could respond with effective solutions. "Whether it's through business, education, or promoting Pakistan's image abroad, your contributions are significant," he said. Recalling his recent meetings with global dignitariesincluding the Speaker of Saudi Arabia and elected officials from the United Stateshe noted that many praised the achievements of Pakistanis living overseas. "When international leaders speak highly of our citizens abroad, it makes us proud. It reflects the hard work and integrity of our people," he said. "The purpose of this convention is to listen to your voices. The National Assembly belongs to you as much as it does to us," he said. "Although dual nationals are currently not allowed to contest elections, this issue needs fresh discussion in the parliament." He stressed the importance of recognizing those who send large amounts of money back home. "You send more remittances than the country earns through exports. If we honour top exporters, why not top remitters?" he asked. He supported the idea of giving top remitters the honorary status of "roaming ambassadors." Sadiq also emphasized the importance of using formal remittance channels and ending the use of informal systems like hundi. "Money sent through legal means strengthens the economy, increases tax collection, and brings transparency. Those using official channels should not face unnecessary scrutiny or extra taxes," he said. He acknowledged the difficulties overseas that Pakistanis face at embassies, particularly in countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Italy. "People who send money home should be treated with the same respect at embassies as ministers and MNAs. Why can't we offer them that dignity?" he asked.
Express Tribune
14-04-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
Diaspora celebrates culture at Lok Virsa
Lok Virsa Deputy Director Anwarul Haq said that the Lok Virsa aimed to preserve the cultural and historical value of Pakistan. PHOTO: A high-level delegation of overseas Pakistanis, currently participating in the Overseas Pakistanis Convention organised in collaboration with the Overseas Pakistanis Foundation (OPF), visited Lok Virsa on Sunday. The Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis, in coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, made special arrangements to welcome the delegation. The guests were greeted with traditional drumbeats and vibrant regional folk music, creating a festive atmosphere. Parliamentary Secretary for National Heritage and Culture, Farah Naz Akbar, officially welcomed the overseas delegates upon their arrival. Delegations from various parts of the worldincluding the United States, Europe, Gulf countries, and Africatoured the Lok Virsa Museum, Handicraft Bazaar, Craft Village, and cultural stalls showcasing Pakistan's rich heritage. The visitors also enjoyed live folk performances, featuring traditional melodies, instruments, and dances from different regions of the country. The performances were met with enthusiastic applause. Delegates visited provincial pavilions that represented the unique cultural identities of all federal units, including Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan. Lok Virsa officials briefed the guests on the diversity and vibrancy of Pakistan's cultural landscape. Speaking to the media, Farah Naz Akbar shared that approximately one thousand overseas Pakistanis are participating in this year's convention. She praised Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for facilitating this platform, calling it a positive initiative to strengthen connections with Pakistanis living abroad. She added that the convention would help formulate a comprehensive strategy to address the concerns and challenges faced by the overseas community.
