UNITED NATIONS: Pakistan has stated that expanding regular migration pathways remains the most effective strategy to reduce irregular migration and address the vulnerabilities associated with it.
Pakistan underscored the importance of creating more accessible legal channels through bilateral labour agreements, Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), and mobility partnerships that align global labour market needs with the skills and expertise of workers.
Delivering Pakistan’s national statement during the General Debate of the Second International Migration Review Forum at UN General Assembly today, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the United Nations, stated that migration has historically served as a transformative force shaping societies and acting as a powerful engine of development for both countries of origin and destination.
“The Global Compact is a remarkable framework to enhance international cooperation on migration and to strengthen the contributions of migrants towards the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals,” he added.
The Ambassador expressed concern over the rising trends of Islamophobia, xenophobia, and harmful narratives targeting migrants. He also reaffirmed the importance of collective international efforts to combat migrant smuggling and human trafficking through strengthened border management, enhanced intelligence-sharing, and coordinated action against criminal networks.
Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad underscored Pakistan’s significant contribution and unique perspective on global migration governance during the UN dialogue on human mobility.
Highlighting Pakistan as a major country of origin, transit, and destination for migrants, the Ambassador noted that the Pakistani diaspora — the sixth largest in the world, with around 8.8 million overseas Pakistanis — constitutes a vital asset for both host countries and Pakistan. He emphasized the important role played by Pakistani professionals and workers in contributing to economic growth across the Middle East, Europe, and North America.
The Permanent Representative further noted that remittances sent by overseas Pakistanis, exceeding $30 billion annually, continue to support millions of families and contribute significantly to local development, social welfare, and poverty alleviation.
Stressing the importance of effective migration governance and capacity-building, the Ambassador called for intensified international cooperation to reduce remittance transaction costs, promote digital financial services, and enhance financial inclusion in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
He also emphasized the need for comprehensive protection of migrant workers throughout the entire migration cycle, including fair recruitment practices, stronger legal safeguards, equal treatment, and decent working conditions.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to constructive international engagement, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad stated that Pakistan would continue working with the international community to promote safe, orderly, and regular migration, and to help ensure a world where migration remains a choice rather than a necessity, and where migrants can live with dignity and harmony.
