Ahsan Iqbal urges Overseas Pakistanis to partner in Economic Growth and Healthcare Reform

Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal has called on overseas Pakistanis to play a leading role

Islamabad: Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal has called on overseas Pakistanis to play a leading role in Pakistan’s economic transformation, healthcare reform and technology-driven development during a series of engagements in the United States.

Addressing the 49th Annual Convention of the Association of Physicians of Pakistani Descent of North America (APPNA) in Orlando, Florida, the minister said the government’s (URAAN Pakistan) initiative places human capital development at the centre of national planning.

He urged Pakistani-American physicians to contribute through a proposed telemedicine network that would connect US-based specialists with doctors serving in Pakistan’s remote districts.

Highlighting the role of innovation, Ahsan Iqbal invited overseas professionals to support Pakistan in developing artificial intelligence-based healthcare solutions and digital health platforms.

He also identified hepatitis C, diabetes, tuberculosis, polio, rapid population growth and child stunting as major national challenges requiring coordinated efforts and global expertise.

During an interactive session, the minister stressed the importance of responsible democratic discourse, saying political differences should not undermine state institutions or damage Pakistan’s international image.

In separate meetings with members of the Pakistani-American business community, Ahsan Iqbal invited overseas entrepreneurs and investors to support Pakistan’s export-led and innovation-driven economic agenda under URAAN Pakistan by promoting investment, technology transfer and market access for Pakistani products.

Referring to Pakistan’s recent strategic achievements, he said the country’s next major challenge is achieving economic strength through higher exports, industrial competitiveness, technological advancement and increased investment. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to policy continuity, improving the investment climate and strengthening long-term partnerships with the Pakistani diaspora, describing overseas Pakistanis as one of the country’s greatest strategic assets.