Islamabad: Managing Director of the Overseas Pakistanis Foundation (OPF), Afzal Bhatti, warmly welcomed passengers arriving on the first Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flight at Islamabad International Airport. On this occasion, he presented flowers to the passengers and said that today marks a historic moment, as overseas Pakistanis have once again been brought closer to their homeland and loved ones.
Afzal Bhatti stated that the present government has made it possible for overseas Pakistanis to visit their country whenever they wish, reunite with their families, invest in Pakistan, expand their businesses, and travel confidently through their own national airline, PIA.
He emphasized that Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif took a personal interest in making PIA operational again. The Prime Minister remained in close contact with senior officials throughout the process and even offered special prayers of gratitude (nawafil) when the flight successfully landed in Pakistan.
The OPF Managing Director added that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is deeply concerned about the problems faced by overseas Pakistanis and holds great affection for them. He said that the current government, through effective diplomacy, managed to reverse the previous government’s decisions that had led to the suspension of flights and deterioration of international relations.
Afzal Bhatti highlighted that Pakistan today stands as a strong, respected, and emerging country on the global stage. He noted that the world’s attention is once again turning towards Pakistan with respect, and many countries are strengthening diplomatic and economic ties — a success he credited to the present leadership’s dedicated efforts.
He further remarked that the resumption of PIA operations will open new routes and opportunities, boosting connectivity, trade, and investment.
Afzal Bhatti also appreciated the PIA management, the Pakistan High Commission, and all those involved in restoring the airline’s operations, acknowledging their teamwork and commitment to national service.
In his concluding remarks, he appealed to overseas Pakistanis by saying:
“Let us travel together and work hand in hand to strengthen our beloved Pakistan.”
