ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis sent 727,381 skilled laborers to Middle Eastern and European countries in 2024, state-run media reported on Thursday, saying that the “record number” of workers abroad would help diminish unemployment in the country and boost remittances.

Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and other Gulf countries are key destinations for Pakistan’s skilled and unskilled workers, whose remittances are vital to the national economy as the country suffers a prolonged macroeconomic crisis. 

“According to official data, 727,381 skilled laborers have been sent abroad for employment,” the state-run Associated Press of Pakistan (APP) said in a report. 

“The majority of these laborers have been employed in countries such as Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Oman, with a significant number also working in European countries.”

The statement highlighted the role of the Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development Ministry in sending a record number of skilled laborers abroad last year, crediting its success to “aggressive marketing strategies, improved facilitation and strengthened ties with international employers.”

It said the move would positively impact Pakistan’s economy as more workers abroad means increased remittances to the country and a reduction in unemployment.

“This landmark achievement was a shining testament to the government’s unwavering commitment to providing Pakistani workers with lucrative employment opportunities abroad,” APP added.

A senior Pakistani official said in February that the government was working to bridge the skills gap and enhance the global competitiveness of Pakistani workers, especially in the Middle East job market.

In January, Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development Minister Chaudhry Salik Hussain said Islamabad was focused on boosting the number of skilled Pakistanis heading to Saudi Arabia, emphasizing the need for innovative project management and well-trained labor.

Pakistan sends around one million skilled workers abroad annually to help reduce unemployment and boost foreign exchange reserves through remittances.