May 2025 witnessed a significant acceleration in the activities of overseas chapters of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), as connections between the Pakistani diaspora and the Government of Pakistan deepened further. Following the historic Overseas Convention held in Islamabad in April, various PML-N overseas chapters actively expanded direct and constructive engagement with the government. The aim has been clear: to unlock new avenues for economic, cultural, and human resource collaboration, and to ensure meaningful contributions to Pakistan’s national development.
Senate resolution on ties with Africa
On 22 May 2025, a major milestone in Pakistan’s diaspora diplomacy was achieved when a landmark resolution was introduced in the Senate of Pakistan, aimed at deepening relations with the African nations. This development was the outcome of sustained efforts by overseas Pakistanis in Africa, particularly the Pakistan Association of Southern Africa (PASA), in close coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Africa Desk led by Additional Secretary Hamid Asghar.
The initiative received strong backing from Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar, Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gillani and Chair of Parliamentary Committee on Pakistan-Africa Friendship MNA Dr Nafisah Shah. Their engagement has elevated Africa as a new priority in Pakistan’s foreign policy landscape. This resolution paves the way for enhanced trade, investment, and diplomatic cooperation with African markets. The Pakistani diaspora in Africa, especially PASA, has been the driving force behind this success. The community is now encouraged to promote awareness of the resolution across the continent so that more Pakistanis can benefit from the opportunities it presents.
Hong Kong: Dialogue on investment and development
In Hong Kong, President PML-N Hong Kong Chapter Imran Khan and Nation Youth Council Member for Hong Kong and China Zain Ali organised a special event to mark Pakistan Day. The gathering was graced by Punjab’s Minister for Finance Mian Mujtaba Shuja-ur-Rehman. Under the leadership of Chapter President Imran Khan, a broad segment of Hong Kong’s Pakistani business community convened for an open discussion session with the minister.
Topics discussed included investment opportunities, trade incentives, tax facilitation, and the export of skilled Pakistani labour. The minister highlighted Punjab’s investor-friendly policies and extended an invitation to overseas Pakistanis to actively participate in the country’s economic growth.
Canada: A day of gratitude
In Canada, a well-attended “Day of Gratitude” was organised under the patronage of Syed Waseem Ali Shah. The event celebrated Pakistan’s recent diplomatic and strategic successes, bringing together notable Pakistani personalities from across the country, including Salamat Hussain, Shafqat, Yousaf, Waqas Amjad, Muhammad Shakeel, and Sohail Meera.
Participants expressed pride in Pakistan’s recent triumphs and highlighted government diplomacy and the valour of the armed forces. They noted that Pakistan’s achievements had earned admiration from international communities, especially those in Arab countries, where congratulations poured in for the Pakistani diaspora.
In his address, Waseem Ali Shah emphasised the need to educate younger generations about Pakistan’s ideological foundations and the two-nation theory. He announced plans to launch a series of seminars aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of Pakistan’s history and values among Canadian-born Pakistanis.
South Africa: A celebration of unity and identity
On 18 May 2025, a vibrant “Day of Gratitude” event was held in Johannesburg, South Africa, hosted by PML-N Chief Patron Ashfaq Anwar. The ceremony featured participation from Pakistan’s Ambassador to South Africa Fahad Amjad, Air Force and Naval Attaché Muhammad Usman Niazi, Cultural Attaché Saad Nawaz, and Political Counsellor Dr Hassan Rabbani, and Trade Attaché Ms Farah, alongside local councillors, community leaders, and a large public turnout.
The event featured patriotic songs and traditional Pakistani cuisine, creating a festive yet reflective atmosphere. Speakers emphasised the pride felt by the diaspora over Pakistan’s recent achievements, which were viewed as a source of honour not just for Pakistanis but for the entire Muslim world. Guests from Arab nations also congratulated the Pakistani community.
