First annual overseas Pakistanis Convention will start in Islamabad today.

It is aimed at recognizing the contributions of overseas Pakistanis to the national economy.

The government has granted the status of state guests to overseas Pakistanis attending the convention.

The Overseas Pakistanis Convention will provide a platform where overseas Pakistanis, government representatives, and national institutions will come together under one roof.

To facilitate this, help desks of various government departments have been set up to provide information, guidance and services to overseas Pakistanis at a single location.

In a video message, Minister for Overseas Pakistanis Chaudhry Salik Hussain has expressed the government's determination to work for the welfare of overseas Pakistanis and address their problems.

He said this is the first time an Overseas Pakistanis Convention is being organized, and opinions and suggestions of Pakistanis living abroad will be welcomed.  

Minister of State for Overseas Pakistanis, Awn Chaudhry, appreciated the contributions of overseas Pakistanis to Pakistan's economy.

He said the hearts of overseas Pakistanis beat for Pakistan.