Islamabad, March 9, 2025: Federal Minister Chaudhry Salik Hussain has taken notice of complaints regarding the blocking of overseas Pakistanis’ passports and has formally written to the Interior Ministry to initiate an investigation into the matter.
The issue was raised by the Pakistan Business Forum France, whose leaders urged the government to intervene. Calling the matter “highly sensitive,” Hussain emphasized that expatriates should not face unnecessary hardships.
A letter from forum leaders Ibrahim Dar, Zahoor Iqbal, and Aslam Chaudhry alleged that thousands of passports have been blocked, with airport staff reportedly demanding bribes of up to Rs500,000 to unblock them. Authorities have pledged a swift investigation and strict action against those involved.
To address the issue, special desks will be set up at airports to assist overseas Pakistanis. PM Shehbaz Sharif has directed the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development to reinstate the Green Channel initiative for smooth travel. A committee has also been formed to honor distinguished diaspora members who contribute to Pakistan’s development.
Speaking at the Overseas Pakistanis Global Foundation Convention, the prime minister acknowledged the diaspora’s significant contributions and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing their concerns.
