The Prime Minister’s Youth Programme (PMYP) and the Overseas Pakistanis Global Foundation (OPGF) are teaming up. They have officially agreed to strengthen their cooperation to empower Pakistan’s youth. Furthermore, they will deepen engagement with overseas Pakistanis. Their joint initiatives will focus on entrepreneurship, skills development, digital innovation, and diaspora engagement.
A Strategic PMYP & OPGF Meeting in New York
This understanding was reached during a high-level meeting in New York. PMYP Chairman Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan met with OPGF Chairman Zaheer Akhtar Mehr. Both leaders discussed expanding collaboration to promote national development. Consequently, they aim to create new opportunities for young Pakistanis at home and abroad.
During the meeting, Mashhood warmly welcomed the OPGF delegation. Chairman Zaheer Akhtar Mehr led the group, which also included General Secretary Mian Athar Hafeez and other senior office bearers.
Mashhood described overseas Pakistanis as one of the country’s greatest national assets. He praised their remarkable contributions through remittances, investments, knowledge transfer, and professional expertise. Furthermore, he emphasized that the government highly values these efforts. It remains committed to introducing policies that facilitate the active participation of the diaspora in Pakistan’s socio-economic development.
Bridging the Gap Through Innovation & Mentorship
Currently, the PMYP is implementing a comprehensive youth strategy. This initiative provides educational opportunities, technical and vocational training, and entrepreneurship support. It also delivers digital skills and employment prospects. Mashhood noted that empowering the youth is absolutely essential for achieving sustainable economic growth. Therefore, it will enhance Pakistan’s competitiveness in the global economy.
Collaboration with organizations representing overseas Pakistanis will build stronger ties. Pakistani professionals living abroad possess incredible international experience. This expertise can play a vital role in innovation, technology transfer, and human resource capacity building. Connecting these professionals with talented local youth through mentorship, internships, and networking will properly prepare young Pakistanis for a knowledge-based economy.
Strengthening Institutional Ties for Long-Term Growth
OPGF Chairman Zaheer Akhtar Mehr briefed the PMYP chairman on the foundation’s mission. He highlighted their ongoing initiatives to safeguard the interests of overseas Pakistanis. OPGF consistently works to promote the welfare of the diaspora and encourages engagement with national institutions.
Mehr stressed that overseas Pakistanis consistently demonstrate unwavering commitment to their homeland. However, these massive contributions require stronger institutional support and regular government coordination. He reaffirmed OPGF’s dedication to launching joint initiatives with the PMYP.
Similarly, General Secretary Mian Athar Hafeez highlighted the need for effective institutional mechanisms. These structures will properly address issues faced by overseas Pakistanis. Additionally, they will promote stronger people-to-people contacts. The diaspora holds tremendous potential to contribute financially and through community development.
To move forward, both sides agreed to organize joint seminars, conferences, and youth exchange programs. They also planned awareness campaigns and leadership initiatives. Ultimately, both organizations committed to maintaining close institutional coordination. They will rapidly transform these discussions into concrete projects that benefit overseas Pakistanis, empower the youth, and drive long-term national development.
