MIRPUR: Chaudhry Gulfraz Hussain, the Kashmir-born Mayor of Keighley, UK, urged the government on Friday to establish special desks for overseas Pakistanis and Kashmiris in major cities of Pakistan and Azad Jammu Kashmir (AJK). These desks would address the concerns of immigrants more efficiently and in less time.
Speaking at the Kashmir Press Club in Mirpur, where he congratulated newly elected President Syed Abid Hussain Shah and other officials on their unopposed victory, Gulfraz highlighted the crucial role of the overseas Pakistani and Kashmiri communities. He emphasized that these communities, particularly in the UK, act as “Unofficial Ambassadors” of their homeland, contributing significantly to Pakistan’s economy through billions in remittances.
Gulfraz stressed that the challenges faced by Pakistanis and Kashmiris abroad, especially in countries like the UK, should be prioritized. He called for the creation of dedicated desks to serve the diaspora more effectively in both Pakistan’s major cities and AJK.
Lauding the role of the media, he acknowledged the important work of journalists, describing them as a vital pillar of society. He also expressed his deep connection to his homeland, stating that the hearts of immigrants continue to beat for Pakistan and Kashmir.
Gulfraz was accompanied by Councilors Chaudhry Ibrahim, Chaudhry Asim Gulfraz, and Chaudhry Waqar Gul Nawaz from the Keighley Borough Council. He pointed out that the Pakistani and Kashmiri communities have a strong presence in the UK’s social and political circles, with several of them holding prominent positions. Notably, five to six Pakistanis and Kashmiris have been elected mayors in various UK towns, and over seven serve as members of the British Parliament.
Reflecting on his own political journey, Gulfraz, formerly the Deputy Mayor and a journalist, expressed gratitude for his swift rise in British politics, saying it was an honor to serve as Mayor. He also took pride in his past association with journalism in Keighley.
During the occasion, the Leader of the Kashmir Electronic Media Affiliation (KEMA), Nasir Rafique, gave Gulfraz a commemoration safeguard. Senior journalist Altaf Hamid Rao, President of the Kashmir Press Club Syed Abid Hussain Shah, and other media professionals were also present.
