PM Shehbaz Sharif hails overseas Pakistanis as national heroes at London event

LONDON: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised the vital role of Overseas Pakistanis during a major community event in London on Saturday evening, describing them as “national heroes” and the “backbone of Pakistan’s economy.”

The high-profile gathering was attended by senior members of the Pakistani government, including Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Defense Minister Khawaja Asif, and Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis Chaudhry Salik Hussain. The event highlighted the contributions of the overseas community and touched on recent economic and geopolitical developments.

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“Overseas Pakistanis are not just a financial asset, they are the true ambassadors of Pakistan,” said Prime Minister Sharif. “Your services are more valuable than gold. Last fiscal year alone, you sent $38.5 billion in remittances, without which Pakistan’s economy could not survive.”

Chaudhry Salik Hussain reiterated the government’s ongoing commitment to the diaspora, stating, “Overseas Pakistanis play an essential role in our national development. The government will continue to support them in every possible way.”

The Prime Minister echoed this sentiment, adding, “You are Pakistan’s pride. You earn a halal livelihood with hard work, and we salute you.”

Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar reflected on the economic turmoil faced by the coalition government upon assuming office. “When we took charge, the situation was bleak. It was widely feared that Pakistan would default,” Dar said. “But thanks to the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, we averted that crisis. Today, Pakistan’s economy is stabilizing and moving towards recovery.”

He added that the country is also working on major plans related to climate change and environmental sustainability.

Defense Minister Khawaja Asif and Prime Minister Sharif also addressed recent tensions with India, referencing the controversial Pahalgam incident and subsequent military action.

“Pakistan was forced to respond in self-defense after India targeted innocent Pakistani civilians,” Prime Minister Sharif said. “We shot down six enemy aircraft in a single strike – a lesson India will not forget for the rest of its life.”

Defense Minister Asif added, “Pakistan gave a befitting response in the war of truth. Our integrity remains our top priority. Pakistan defeated India, a much larger adversary, with courage and clarity.”

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Both Asif and Dar accentuated that Pakistan’s diplomatic standing had improved significantly in recent months. “Pakistan has re-emerged on the global stage with a new identity,” Dar said.

Khawaja Asif also welcomed a new agreement with Saudi Arabia. Additionally, PM Sharif announced the formation of an international committee to investigate the Pahalgam incident, aiming to bring global attention to the matter.