ISLAMABAD, 15 DEC (DNA) – In order to commemorate the valuable services and the role played by overseas Pakistanis in national development, Overseas Pakistanis Foundation has decided to celebrate a week of celebrations in connection with International Migrants Day on 18th Decembers.

The week of celebrations will be marked with intercollegiate debate competition, cricket match, students painting competition and international seminar from 18th December to 22nd December, 2016.

The main objective behind all these activities is to pay tribute to Pakistani expatriates and remember their contribution in development of the country. Overseas Pakistanis play vital role in strengthening economy of the country by sending over $ 20 billion per anum to Pakistan.

Talking on this occasion, the Chairman OPF, Board of Governors Barrister Amjad Malik said that overseas Pakistanis are an asset for Pakistan and their contribution to the economy of Pakistan and their potential make them uniquely placed as stakeholders in the development and prosperity of Pakistan.

He said that the government desires to use potential of Pakistani expatriates to promote positive image of Pakistan. We will ensure overseas Pakistanis play their due role to raise image of Pakistan hence Overseas Pakistanis Advisory Council (OPAC) is being constituted to take their views on board to enhance our services and to increase overseas investments.

Barrister Malik said that provision of more facilities and resolution of problems being faced by overseas Pakistanis is the top most priority of the government. The Chairman vowed to make OPF more vibrant, effective and service oriented to provide maximum services to overseas Pakistanis and their dependents. He said that celebrating International Migrants day reflects the sincerity and priorities of the government towards Pakistani expatriates.

Managing Director, OPF, Habib Ur Rehman Gilani said that OPF always stood with overseas Pakistanis and it will always stand by them in future. He said that OPF is working for the welfare of Pakistanis expatriates and their dependents in all walks of life. He further said that key objective behind celebrating week of celebrations in connection with International Migrants Day is to pay homage to Pakistani expatriates and their families.DNA