There are more than 8.9 million Pakistanis currently living abroad who could serve the country more if they are to actively participate in the politics of countries where they reside, so that a formidable Pakistani diaspora lobby could emerge. Unfortunately, other than in the UK — where there are about 12 members of parliament originating from Pakistan, the most prominent being Sadiq Khan serving as elected Lord Mayor of London — there are hardly any in other developed countries, including the US.
Pakistan is a 220 million-strong nation where a big percentage of citizens are more than willing to take part in the political process and decide the fate of the country. This needless controversy about giving dual nationals the right to contest polls in Pakistan will serve no purpose. Instead, international support is necessary. By creating a Pakistani lobby in important world capitals, in particular, our country could have an implicit voice to influence other countries in not only trusting but also investing in Pakistan. In the midst of global political and social chaos, what Pakistan needs is to maintain healthy relationships with First World countries which can provide the much-needed support that Pakistan desperately needs.
Malik Tariq Ali
Lahore
Published in The Express Tribune, September 6th, 2020.
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