The Overseas Pakistanis (OSP) Convention 2025 commenced this week in Islamabad with great enthusiasm, marking a landmark initiative to strengthen ties between the government and the global Pakistani diaspora. This inaugural convention is being celebrated as a timely and impactful step towards recognizing the contributions of overseas Pakistanis and involving them in shaping the country’s future.
Government officials, including the Prime Minister, Speaker of the National Assembly, and the Chief of Army Staff, acknowledged the unwavering patriotism and financial contributions of Pakistanis abroad—particularly through remittances, which have been instrumental in navigating economic challenges. The Army Chief praised the diaspora as a powerful example of brain gain, not brain drain, and emphasized their unwavering commitment to Pakistan.
For the first time in the country’s history, a formal, annual platform has been established to directly engage overseas Pakistanis. The convention invited participants from the Middle East, Europe, North America, and beyond to reconnect with their homeland and contribute to national dialogue. More than 20 ministries and departments set up help desks to address concerns related to immigration, property rights, investment, taxation, and education.
A core goal of the convention is to create a feedback loop—recognizing the sacrifices of overseas Pakistanis and incorporating their insights into national policymaking. The initiative reflects a serious commitment to addressing long-standing issues faced by the diaspora.
Major Announcements and Incentives
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif unveiled a series of incentives for the overseas community, including:
- Special Courts: A court dedicated to overseas Pakistanis has been established in Islamabad, with plans to expand to other provinces to ensure speedy resolution of legal issues.
- Green Channel Facility: To be operational soon, this will streamline customs and immigration procedures.
- Tax Relief: Overseas Pakistanis will now be considered filers by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), offering relief in financial transactions.
- Educational Quotas: Reserved seats in chartered universities (5%), Islamabad-based institutions (5%), and medical colleges (15%) for children of overseas Pakistanis.
- Job Age Relaxation: Five-year relaxation for men and seven-year for women applying for government jobs.
- Skill Development: The National Vocational and Technical Training Commission will offer 5,000 courses to children of expatriates.
The Prime Minister also introduced civil awards for outstanding overseas Pakistanis, to be presented annually on August 14. Nominations will be coordinated through Pakistan’s embassies and the Overseas Pakistanis Foundation (OPF).
Over 1,200 participants attended the convention, paying their own travel and accommodation expenses—underscoring their strong emotional and national connection to Pakistan. Despite attempts by some critics and vloggers to discredit the event, the government emphasized its transparency and national value.
Cultural Celebration and Unity
The convention also featured cultural performances and networking sessions to build unity and encourage collaboration between overseas and local stakeholders. It served not only as a policymaking platform but also as a celebration of the achievements of overseas Pakistanis in areas such as technology, entrepreneurship, public service, and philanthropy.
Minister for Overseas Pakistanis, Chaudhry Salik Hussain, referred to the diaspora attendees as state guests and highlighted their integral role in Pakistan’s identity and progress. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to their welfare and engagement.
Security, National Solidarity, and Global Advocacy
Both the Prime Minister and the Army Chief condemned social media campaigns undermining national institutions and reaffirmed the nation’s solidarity with oppressed communities, including those in Kashmir and Gaza. “The hearts of Pakistanis beat with Gaza,” General Asim Munir said, reiterating Pakistan’s strong moral stance.
Looking Ahead
Chairman of the OPF, Syed Qamar Raza, announced the establishment of a high-powered committee led by Deputy PM Ishaq Dar to follow up on 14 key demands made by the diaspora. He confirmed that the OSP Convention will become an annual event every April.
In sum, the OSP Convention 2025 not only celebrates the role of overseas Pakistanis but also lays the foundation for lasting, institutionalized engagement. It’s a powerful message: Pakistan is ready to embrace its global family, listen to their voices, and build a stronger, more connected future together.
