ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has approved a significant reshuffle in its diplomaticcorps, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif endorsing 24 high-levelappointments and transfers within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Thechanges target critical postings in the United Kingdom, Afghanistan,Geneva, Saudi Arabia, and several European and North American capitals,aiming to bolster Pakistan’s international representation amid evolvingregional and global dynamics. This move comes as the country navigatescomplex relations with neighbours and major powers, with officialsemphasizing strategic placements to enhance political engagement, consularservices, and diaspora outreach.
The appointment of Captain Usman Tipu (retd) as Pakistan’s new HighCommissioner to the United Kingdom stands out as one of the most prominentchanges. He replaces Dr Faisal, who is returning to headquarters inIslamabad and is viewed as a leading contender for the position of ForeignSecretary. The vacancy is expected to arise following the retirement ofincumbent Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch in September. The London missionholds particular importance due to its role in managing substantialpolitical ties, consular matters, and engagement with the large Pakistanidiaspora in the UK.
In a notable shift from public-facing duties, Foreign Office spokespersonTahir Hussain Andrabi has been appointed as Pakistan’s PermanentRepresentative to the United Nations in Geneva. This transition moves himfrom domestic communications responsibilities to a key multilateralplatform, where Pakistan addresses issues ranging from human rights todisarmament. The posting underscores the government’s intent to placeexperienced voices in international forums that influence global policy onmatters of direct concern to Islamabad.
Dr Syed Asad Ali Gillani has been designated as Pakistan’s new ambassadorto Afghanistan, replacing Ubaidur Rehman Nizamani. Gillani, previouslyserving as Additional Secretary handling Afghanistan and West Asia affairs,brings regional expertise to Kabul at a time when bilateral relations focuson border security, trade, and refugee issues. Nizamani, in turn, has beenreassigned as ambassador to Sweden, continuing a pattern of rotationaladjustments to maintain fresh perspectives in European missions.
Bilal Ahmad’s transfer from Pakistan’s UN Mission in Geneva to Saudi Arabiamarks another strategic realignment. He replaces Ahmed Farooq, who is setto return to Islamabad upon completing his tenure. The Riyadh posting isvital for Pakistan, given deep economic, religious, and labour ties withthe Kingdom, including remittances from millions of Pakistani workers andcoordination on Islamic world affairs.
Mudassar Tipu has been moved from his ambassadorship in Iran to Uzbekistan,reflecting adjustments in Central Asian engagement. This change aligns withPakistan’s efforts to deepen connections in the region through initiativeslike the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor extensions and energycooperation. Such rotations ensure diplomats with relevant experience arepositioned to advance bilateral agendas effectively.
Additional key appointments include Salman, formerly at the PrimeMinister’s House, named ambassador to Germany. This placement strengthensties with a major European economic power, focusing on trade, investment,and technology collaboration. Sania Afzal Qazi has been appointedambassador to Thailand, expanding Pakistan’s footprint in Southeast Asiaamid growing interest in Asean partnerships.
The reshuffle extends to other regions with Asim Ali Khan assigned asambassador to Norway, emphasizing Arctic and environmental diplomacyalongside bilateral relations. Siraj Ahmad Khan takes up the role of ConsulGeneral in Los Angeles, crucial for consular services to the Pakistanicommunity on the US West Coast and economic outreach. Asad Shahzad has beenposted as ambassador to Uganda, while Muhammad Faisal Abroo becomes ConsulGeneral in Montreal, enhancing representation in Africa and North America.
These appointments reflect a deliberate strategy by the government torefresh overseas missions with seasoned personnel capable of addressingcontemporary challenges. Sources indicate the reshuffle covers a broadspectrum of 24 positions, ensuring continuity in critical areas whileintroducing new leadership where needed. The Ministry of Foreign Affairscontinues to prioritize placements that safeguard national interests abroad.
The changes occur against the backdrop of ongoing diplomatic efforts,including recent upgrades in representation and extensions for some envoysin key capitals like China, Italy, and Greece. This comprehensive overhaulis expected to streamline operations and reinforce Pakistan’s voice ininternational arenas.
Source:https://www.brecorder.com/news/40406147/high-level-diplomatic-postings-transfers-approved
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