4,700 Pakistani beggars arrested in Saudi Arabia, says Khawaja Asif

SIALKOT: Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif revealed that 4,700 Pakistani beggars have been arrested in Saudi Arabia, expressing deep concern over the impact such incidents have on the country’s image abroad.

Speaking at an event organized by the Ready-Made Garments Association in Sialkot, Asif said, “It is the responsibility of politicians to protect Pakistan from global embarrassment. Incidents like this bring shame to our nation.”

The minister also commented on the country’s energy policies, accusing Independent Power Producers (IPPs) of economic exploitation.

“The kind of daylight robbery committed by the IPPs involves major names,” he said, adding that the policy to promote IPPs was first introduced during the Pakistan Peoples Party’s government in 1993 and continued until 1997.

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Asif further noted that the majority of these power plants were established during the tenure of former President General Pervez Musharraf.

He highlighted the growing adoption of solar energy in Pakistan, calling it a “solar revolution,” while also pointing out a $4 billion loss in import duties linked to the energy sector.

The minister’s remarks reflect increasing scrutiny over both the country’s labor export issues and long-standing energy agreements that continue to weigh on Pakistan’s economy.