Historic Overseas Pakistanis Convention 2025 Held in London

Mushtaq Tufail, Rotherham, South Yorkshire:

A grand convention of Overseas Pakistanis was held in London on Saturday, September 20, at the Great Room, JW Marriott Grosvenor House Hotel, Mayfair Park Lane. The historic gathering brought together more than a thousand expatriates from across the United Kingdom, including distinguished members from the British Parliament and the House of Lords.

The event was graced by the Prime Minister of Pakistan, Mian Mohammad Shahbaz Sharif, along with key cabinet members: Defense Minister Khawaja Asif, Information Minister Atta Tarar, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, and Speaker of the Punjab Assembly Malik Ahmed. The reception was hosted by Syed Qamar Raza, Chairman of the Overseas Pakistanis Foundation (BOG).

Speakers at the convention highlighted the vital contributions of the British Pakistani diaspora, who remitted 38 billion USD to Pakistan, providing critical support to families and playing a pivotal role in stabilizing the national economy. The sacrifices and successes of Pakistan’s defence and security forces in addressing recent border tensions were also applauded.

Among the notable attendees was Sheffield’s renowned community activist, media spokesperson, and cultural personality Muhtrhum Raja Ishtiaq Ahmed, widely celebrated for his contributions to Urdu literature and poetry. In his remarks, he stated: “The future of Pakistan looks very bright. Such conventions are a source of inspiration for the overseas community and play a vital role in strengthening Pakistan’s international image and partnerships.”

Also present were former Sheffield councillor Haji Ilyas, North West PML-N President Raja Sajjad, PML-UK President Ehsan Dar, Pakistan’s High Commissioner to the UK Dr. Faisal, and prominent community leader and philanthropist Barrister Abid Hussain, who has been actively involved in humanitarian initiatives for Pakistan.

The event atmosphere was vibrant and celebratory, with discussions focusing on Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage, tourism potential, natural resources, and future strategic policies. The gathering underscored the shared vision of overseas Pakistanis in contributing to the progress, stability, and global standing of their homeland.