Islamabad, July 14, 2026: Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani has called for deeper engagement with the overseas Pakistani business community to promote investment, strengthen economic diplomacy and unlock Pakistan’s economic potential.
He made the remarks while addressing a delegation of the New York Chamber of Small Business Corp., USA, led by its Founder President Syed Alamdar Hussain Shah, along with prominent businessmen from the United States, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Pakistan at a luncheon hosted in their honour at the Senate of Pakistan.
Welcoming the delegation, Gilani said overseas Pakistanis play a vital role in enhancing Pakistan’s global image and serve as a bridge connecting the country with international markets, innovation, technology and investment opportunities.
He said the delegation’s visit reflected a shared commitment to expanding economic cooperation, fostering stronger partnerships and creating new avenues for investment between Pakistan and overseas Pakistani entrepreneurs. He appreciated the delegation’s engagement with parliamentarians, government institutions and the local business community, describing it as a positive step towards deepening economic collaboration.
The chairman also expressed gratitude for the citation presented to him on the occasion of Pakistan’s Independence Day, saying he accepted the honour not as a personal recognition but as a tribute to Pakistan, its democratic institutions and the millions of overseas Pakistanis whose dedication and professionalism continue to enhance the country’s reputation worldwide.
Highlighting the importance of trust in economic relations, Gilani said investment and trade strengthen confidence between nations and pave the way for lasting international partnerships. He added that the delegation’s visit reflected growing confidence in Pakistan’s economic future.
The Senate chairman said Pakistan offers significant investment opportunities due to its young population, expanding digital economy, strategic location and abundant natural resources. He noted that government reforms to improve the ease of doing business, along with the work of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), have enhanced coordination and support for investors.
Reaffirming Parliament’s role in economic development, Gilani said the Senate remains committed to promoting legislation and policies that encourage entrepreneurship, innovation, investment and job creation. He emphasized that stable democratic institutions, effective legislation and strong parliamentary oversight are essential to building investor confidence and ensuring sustainable economic growth.
He also expressed hope that the interaction would mark the beginning of a lasting institutional relationship between the Senate of Pakistan and overseas Pakistani business organizations, enabling continued dialogue and closer cooperation.
Concluding his address, Gilani urged overseas Pakistani entrepreneurs to translate goodwill into investment and investment into opportunities that would contribute to Pakistan’s prosperity. He expressed confidence that the delegation’s visit would help strengthen economic cooperation, expand business linkages and reinforce ties between Pakistan and its global business community.
