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In a recent meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on Overseas Pakistanis, the Secretary of Overseas Pakistanis revealed some concerning facts about Pakistanis living and working abroad. One of the most startling revelations was that a significant percentage of beggars arrested in foreign countries are Pakistanis. This issue was discussed during the committee meeting, which was chaired by Senator Manzoor Kakar.
Low Emigration to Japan: During the meeting, Senator Rana Mahmood ul Hassan pointed out that countries like Japan, India, and Nepal have sent a large number of skilled workers abroad, but Pakistan has lagged behind. For example, Japan has requested around 340,000 skilled workers from various countries, but Pakistan has sent only about 200 people. This is despite Pakistan having a substantial workforce, including 500,000 engineers. Nepal, with a population of 30 million, has also sent its people to Japan for employment, with many learning the Japanese language.
Saudi Arabia’s Skilled Labor Demand: Senator Rana Mahmoodul Hassan also mentioned that approximately 3 million Pakistanis are working in Saudi Arabia, but the government is preparing a proposal to send more skilled labor there. Saudi Arabia is currently recruiting skilled labor instead of unskilled labor due to a shortage of skilled workers. Saudi Arabia is even setting up skill centers in Pakistan. Additionally, the UAE has offered to accept 50,000 skilled workers from Pakistan.
Skilled Workforce Preparation: Officials from Overseas Pakistanis informed the committee that Pakistan has signed a contract with Japan in 2019. Pakistan provides language training to its workforce to meet Japan’s requirements for skilled labor.
Shortage of Skilled Individuals in Pakistan: Senator Sherry Rehman highlighted that Nepal is sending mountain shepherds to Pakistan, and Pakistan is lacking skilled individuals in surveying and mountaineering.
Begging Issue Abroad: Secretary Overseas Pakistanis, Zeeshan Khanzada, raised concerns about Pakistanis being detained for begging in holy cities abroad. Many beggars arrested in these places are Pakistanis, and this has become a human trafficking issue. Furthermore, a significant number of individuals arrested for stealing wallets inside holy shrines are also Pakistanis, and they often misuse religious visas for begging.
Conclusion: In summary, this meeting shed light on the challenges Pakistan faces with emigration, emphasizing the need to send more skilled labor abroad and address various issues related to overseas Pakistanis. The high number of Pakistanis arrested for begging and other unlawful activities in foreign countries is a matter of concern that needs to be addressed promptly.
