Islamabad, February 4, 2025: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced on Tuesday that overseas Pakistanis will be issued blue passports, granting them special recognition and privileges. Speaking at the Overseas Pakistanis Global Foundation ceremony in Islamabad, he expressed deep appreciation for their contributions to the nation’s economy and global standing.
“The government and the nation salute overseas Pakistanis,” the prime minister declared. He highlighted the 30% surge in remittances, which has strengthened Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves and bolstered the national treasury. Shehbaz Sharif reassured expatriates that the government is committed to addressing their long-standing issues, particularly property disputes.
“The Punjab overseas department, under the chief minister’s leadership, is actively resolving these matters. I will not rest until overseas Pakistanis receive their rightful dues,” he pledged. He also announced the immediate restoration of the Green Channel initiative, originally launched by former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to facilitate smoother processing for overseas Pakistanis.
“We will not allow the Green Channel to turn yellow or red,” he assured.
On the issue of terrorism, PM Shehbaz strongly criticized past administrations for reversing Pakistan’s counterterrorism progress.
“By 2018, Pakistan had eliminated terrorism through the sacrifices of 80,000 civilians, officers, and soldiers. Allowing terrorists back into the country was an act of betrayal,” he said.
He reaffirmed his government’s resolve to combat militancy. “Terrorism will be buried again, and Pakistan will be made safe. Our sacrifices will not go in vain,” he vowed.
Emphasizing the importance of youth engagement, the prime minister endorsed a proposal for a Youth Festival and announced plans to collaborate with the information minister to bring the initiative to life.
With over 10 million Pakistanis living abroad, PM Shehbaz’s remarks underscored the diaspora’s pivotal role in shaping Pakistan’s future.
