The federal government has decided to build an international airport in Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK) in response to long-standing demands from overseas Pakistanis.
According to ARY News, the decision comes after persistent calls from the Pakistani diaspora. Earlier, a letter written by British MPs of Kashmiri origin to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif surfaced, in which they endorsed the demand for an airport in the region.
Following strong advocacy from overseas Pakistanis, the government has directed the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to move forward with the project. An advertisement has now been issued to hire a consultancy firm for the airport’s development. Officials state that eligible consultants can participate in the tender process as per standard procedures.
First Annual Overseas Pakistanis Convention Begins in Islamabad
Meanwhile, the first annual Overseas Pakistanis Convention is set to begin today in Islamabad. The event aims to acknowledge the contributions of expatriates to Pakistan’s national economy.
The government has granted state guest status to overseas Pakistanis attending the convention, which will serve as a platform for direct engagement between expatriates, government representatives, and national institutions under one roof.
To facilitate attendees, help desks from various government departments have been set up to provide information, guidance, and services in one place.
In a video message, Chaudhry Salik Hussain, the Minister for Overseas Pakistanis, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing the welfare and concerns of expatriates. He noted that this is the first time such a convention is being held, and the government welcomes feedback and suggestions from overseas Pakistanis.
Similarly, Awn Chaudhry, the State Minister for Overseas Pakistanis, praised the role of expatriates in strengthening Pakistan’s economy, stating, “The hearts of overseas Pakistanis beat for Pakistan.”
