Islamabad (GNP): Chairman Senate of Pakistan, Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani, while addressing a ceremony held in connection with International Nurses Day, paid rich tribute to the nursing community, paramedical staff, and all professionals associated with the healthcare sector. He stated that education and health are among the sectors closest to his heart, emphasizing that the provision of quality healthcare and education is indispensable for building a strong, developed, and prosperous Pakistan.
He remarked that the nursing profession serves as the backbone of the medical field, as nurses not only care for patients under the most challenging circumstances but also provide hope, courage, and confidence to their families.
He noted that the contributions of the nursing community represented an invaluable service to humanity, affirming that the entire nation stood in recognition of their sacrifices and unwavering commitment to their profession.
Chairman of the Senate Gilani stated that modern reforms in the healthcare sector are the need of the hour and reaffirmed that the Senate of Pakistan remains committed to strengthening the public healthcare system and aligning it with contemporary global standards.
He welcomed the passage of the Pakistan Nursing and Midwifery Council Bill 2026, expressing confidence that the legislation would play a meaningful role in elevating the academic and professional standards of nursing across the country in accordance with internationally recognized benchmarks.
He further stated that telemedicine, artificial intelligence, and modern technologies have the potential to bring revolutionary changes to the healthcare sector. Stressing the importance of modern training for nurses and paramedical staff, he said that Pakistan’s healthcare system must be developed according to global standards. He added that investment in human resources is, in fact, a guarantee of national stability, economic growth, and social prosperity.
Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani said that a healthy, strong, and prosperous Pakistan is a shared vision of all stakeholders, and achieving this objective requires joint efforts by the government, parliament, medical experts, the nursing community, and the public.
On the occasion of International Nurses Day, he once again paid tribute to the nursing community for their national services, spirit of sacrifice, and humanitarian contributions, stating that the nation will always remember and honor the dedication and sacrifices of these unsung heroes. He appreciated the initiative to acknowledge the services of nursing staff.
Maroof International Hospital in collaboration hosted a prestigious International Nurses Day Seminar in Islamabad, bringing together senior government officials, healthcare leaders, students, girl guides, lady health workers, members of the diplomatic corps, and representatives from the corporate and hospitality sectors to recognize the invaluable contribution of nurses to Pakistan’s healthcare system.
The event was graced by Chairman Senate of Pakistan Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani as the Chief Guest. Sardar Yasir Ilyas Khan, Advisor and National Coordinator to the Prime Minister of Pakistan on Tourism, attended as Guest of Honor alongside Ch. Naseer Ahmed, Chairman, Maroof International Hospital. Ambassadors and diplomats from Turkmenistan, Germany, Russia, Lebanon, Sri Lanka, Yemen, Indonesia, Azerbaijan, Mauritius, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, and Syria also attended the seminar.
The seminar was led by Haroon Naseer, CEO Maroof International, together with Dr. Mir Abdul Waheed, Medical Director, MIH, and Catherine, Chief of Nursing.
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Addressing healthcare professionals and guests, Haroon Naseer emphasized the urgent need to strengthen Pakistan’s nursing workforce and healthcare infrastructure.
“Nurses are the backbone of healthcare and represent nearly 60% of the global healthcare workforce. Their dedication, compassion, and resilience are critical to improving patient care and strengthening healthcare systems,” said Haroon Naseer.
He further stressed that Pakistan must invest in nursing education, training, and professional development to meet the growing demands of modern healthcare.
Speaking on the occasion, Sardar Yasir Ilyas Khan highlighted the growing opportunities for Pakistan in healthcare and medical tourism.
“Pakistan has tremendous potential in medical and wellness tourism. By combining quality healthcare services, internationally trained medical professionals, and world-class hospitality, Pakistan can position itself as a regional destination for affordable and reliable medical treatment,” said Sardar Yasir Ilyas Khan.
Dr. Mir Abdul Waheed, Medical Director, MIH, paid tribute to nurses for their frontline role in patient care, emergency response, and community health services, while also recognizing the broader contribution of healthcare professionals in building a healthier and stronger Pakistan.
Catherine emphasized the critical role of nurses as the foundation of patient care delivery and hospital safety standards.
“Every patient’s journey to recovery begins with a nurse. Strengthening nursing education, continuous training, and professional recognition is essential to build safe and high-quality healthcare systems in Pakistan,” said Catherine.
She further called for greater investment in nursing leadership development, modern clinical training, and international exposure for Pakistani nurses to enhance global standards of care.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment from healthcare leaders, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to support nursing professionals, encourage healthcare innovation, and strengthen Pakistan’s medical tourism ecosystem through meaningful public-private partnerships.
