Army Chief General Asim Munir pays tribute to overseas Pakistanis, rejects notion of brain drain

Rawalpindi, April 15, 2025 — Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir has praised the role of overseas Pakistanis in strong terms, saying that they are the pride of Pakistan and our ambassadors at the global level. He categorically rejected the perception that the departure of Pakistanis abroad is a “brain drain”, and said that it is actually a source of Pakistan’s strength and influence in the world.

General Asim Munir said that more than 10 million Pakistanis living around the world are not only playing a key role in the country’s economy but are also improving Pakistan’s image. Their remittances, investments, and diplomatic cooperation are a valuable asset for Pakistan.

“Overseas Pakistanis are our pride”
In his address, the Army Chief said, “Overseas Pakistanis are not a brain drain but the pride of our country. Wherever they are, they represent the best of Pakistan’s potential, talent, and hard work.”

He said that overseas Pakistanis not only participate in the development of their host countries but also have a deep emotional attachment to their homeland. He urged the government and institutions to create facilities for these Pakistanis so that they can play a more meaningful role in national development.

Need for institutional support and better policies
General Munir stressed that a coherent, transparent, and effective policy framework be developed for overseas Pakistanis so that they can invest in the homeland without fear, buy property, and directly participate in national development.

“We should not regret that they have gone abroad, but rather we should create avenues so that they can contribute to Pakistan’s development wherever they are. Their knowledge, expertise, and international connections are part of Pakistan’s overall potential,” he said.

He suggested that professionals, businessmen, and students be provided with platforms through which they can directly connect with Pakistani institutions and individuals and initiate joint projects.

National unity and stability essential

In his address, the army chief also stressed that national unity, political stability, and law and order are essential to restore the confidence of overseas Pakistanis. He acknowledged that legal issues, property disputes, and bureaucratic hurdles often prevent overseas Pakistanis from being active in the homeland, and supported reform measures to address these issues.

He expressed his determination that state institutions are aware of the concerns of overseas Pakistanis and are committed to providing a conducive and secure environment for them.

A message of hope and determination
The Army Chief’s message was full of hope and determination. He said that Pakistan’s global workforce can play a significant role in changing the destiny of the country. “Now national development is no longer limited to the borders of the country, we have to consider overseas Pakistanis not just as remittance senders but as partners and builders of the country.”

His address was enthusiastically appreciated by the audience, and several overseas representatives reiterated their resolve to further strengthen ties with Pakistan, and contribute to national development through every possible means.