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As the Overseas Pakistani Convention continues in Islamabad until April 16, 2025, it serves as a timely reminder of the growing importance of Pakistan’s global community. With over 9 million Pakistanis living abroad, the diaspora is more than just a source of remittances—it’s a living bridge connecting Pakistan to the world.
According to the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Pakistan has the 7th largest diaspora globally, part of a 272-million-strong global migrant population. And they aren’t just sending money home—though that matters immensely. The World Bank ranks Pakistan among the top 10 remittance-receiving countries, with $8.8 billion sent in the first quarter of FY 2025 alone.
But it’s the human stories behind these numbers that truly define the diaspora’s strength.
The Selfless Hajj Assistant Who Became a National Hero
On March 23, 2025, Asif Bashir, a government-appointed Hajj assistant, was awarded the Sitara-i-Imtiaz—Pakistan’s third-highest civilian award. His act of bravery during last year’s pilgrimage saved lives at a time when temperatures in Makkah soared past 51°C.
Bashir and his team provided life-saving first aid to dozens of pilgrims. He personally transported 26 individuals to the hospital, most of whom were Indians, along with a few British and Canadian nationals. Seventeen of those survived, thanks to his timely response—an act of humanity that transcended borders and spoke volumes of Pakistan’s spirit.
Umar Farooq Zahoor’s FDI Impact
Also recognized this year with the Hilal-e-Imtiaz, Dubai-based businessman Umar Farooq Zahoor brought nearly $700 million in direct foreign investment to Pakistan over the past three years. His contributions have gone beyond business—he has strategically directed capital towards infrastructure, logistics, ports, energy, and real estate.
Currently, projects worth over $2 billion are underway, thanks in part to Zahoor’s diplomatic outreach across the Gulf. His ability to leverage business networks for bilateral economic cooperation has positioned him as a key player in Pakistan-Gulf economic diplomacy.
The Larger Picture: Diaspora as a Diplomatic Asset
The Pakistani diaspora continues to shape global perceptions—not just through remittances, but through acts of kindness, investment in progress, and advocacy for Pakistan’s values. Yet, some segments risk diluting this positive influence by engaging in divisive narratives and politically charged social media campaigns that disconnect them from ground realities.
As ambassadors of Pakistan abroad, true patriotism lies not in partisan alignment, but in uplifting the country’s credibility. Initiatives like Roshan Digital Accounts have already empowered overseas Pakistanis to invest in Pakistan’s financial markets, real estate, and development sectors. The potential is immense—if aligned with unity and purpose.
A Call for Unity and Purpose
As the convention draws attention to overseas contributions, it is also a call to reclaim the diaspora’s role as ambassadors of culture, peace, and prosperity. Whether through heroic service like Bashir’s, or investment-led transformation like Zahoor’s, the diaspora holds the potential to reshape Pakistan’s global image—but only if it speaks with one voice.
By staying apolitical, promoting people-to-people diplomacy, and focusing on shared national progress, overseas Pakistanis can turn their distance into influence—and their influence into lasting impact.
PAYF Insights are social media threads by various authors, reproduced here for wider consumption.
