The federal government, led by Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz, has decided to fulfill a longstanding demand of overseas Pakistanis by initiating plans to construct an airport in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). This decision follows a letter from British Members of Parliament of Kashmiri origin urging Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to support this initiative.
In response, the Airports Authority in Islamabad has published an advertisement inviting consultancy firms to participate in the tender process for the project. The aim is to ensure that eligible consultants can engage in the procedure as prescribed.
Meanwhile, the inaugural Overseas Pakistanis Convention commences today in Islamabad, marking a significant step in recognizing the economic contributions of overseas Pakistanis. Attendees have been granted state guest status by the government, underscoring the event’s importance.
The convention serves as a platform where overseas Pakistanis, government representatives, and national institutions converge to discuss pertinent issues. Various government departments have set up help desks at the venue to provide comprehensive assistance and information.
Minister for Overseas Pakistanis Chaudhry Salik Hussain emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing overseas Pakistanis’ concerns, inviting their feedback during this inaugural convention.
Minister of State for Overseas Pakistanis Awn Chaudhry acknowledged the pivotal role of overseas Pakistanis in Pakistan’s economy, highlighting their unwavering dedication to the nation.
Airports in Kashmir:
Azad Kashmir currently has two non-functional airports in Muzaffarabad and Rawalakot due to low passenger traffic. For travel needs, travelers must rely on Islamabad or nearby city airports.
