Pakistan in Spain

Overseas Nationals, for any country, are truly the ambassadors of the home country. They represent their home country by every means. There are currently 6.3 million Pakistanis living abroad (3% of the population), out of which 45000 Pakistanis are residing in Spain, which represents one of the highest population in any European country outside the United Kingdom, In Spain more than 60% Pakistanis are settled in Barcelona located in Catalonia state, that is why it is widely known as “Pakcelona” in local community.

Many Pakistanis living in Spain are very passionate about their country and its people. They play active roles in contributing towards the welfare of their country by supporting charitable causes that are close to their hearts. We can see their flood relief activities in 2010 and in the 2005 earthquake. Spain donated 50 million euros out of which 30 million were raised in the state of Catalonia. They have shown to the world that they are standing side by side with the fellow citizens no matter what happens.

Pakistanis have helped to keep their culture and traditions alive in Spain whether it is Basant, Eid celebrations, 14th August Independence Day, wedding styles, Chand raat or Ramadan. It’s amazing to see how they celebrate all these events irrespective of the consequences they could face from the local governments. Local Pakistani communities live in unity and are always ready to help. In March 2007, a radio station named "Pakcelona" was started by Raja Shafiq in the state of Catalonia, which is the only Pakistani and foreign language radio station in whole Spain. The aim of the radio is not only to entertain the Spanish Pakistanis but also to acknowledge them about the culture and laws of Spain. Through the radio programs the old immigrants guide the new arrivals in their immigration cases. There is also a program in which daily language classes are given in Catalan (regional language) and Spanish (official language).

Pakistani women made 50% of the population so in order to integrate immigrants in Spanish society , a very well know Pakistani girl Huma has started an NGO named ASECOPS in 2005, which has been helping Pakistani women by providing them Spanish lessons, informal jobs and inter cultural development skills. Another Pakistani women Salma Shakir started Desi salsa which has become very popular in local community. Beside that every year Pakistani cultural melas (Pakistani dances) are organized in which they introduce Pakistani music, regional dances and games like kabadi and hockey.

Pakistanis in Barcelona are contributing in Pakistani economy for last two decades. On Rambla place in Barcelona, the most popular touristic place, they are everywhere: from Boucher stores to electronic shops internet cafes to grocery stores and of course restaurants. Faheem Zia from Lahore is the first Pakistani lawyer in Spain.

They might be far from homeland but their heart beats with Pakistan, No one can doubt about their Patriotism and their contribution in Pakistan's affairs and economy. They also feel proud on celebrating Independence Day and defense day. The colorful celebration last all day on 14th august with various festivals. People decorate their homes, cars and shops with Pakistani flags with respect to Spanish law (they cannot display the flag etiquettes on outer side of the buildings and homes).They feel proud being a Pakistani as the same way as they were living in Pakistan. Because no matter where ever we are, our identity is Pakistan and we stands because Pakistan stands.

Pakistan ZINDABAD

Written By: Sahifa Jaral