ISLAMABAD: The outgoing foreign secretary Salman Bashir was given a warm send-off on Friday, his last day at the office as foreign secretary. The navy band played the farewell tunes and all officers were lined up from his office to the roadside on the Constitution Avenue where his car was parked to take him home. The foreign secretary hosted a reception in honour of the officers and their spouses. It was an emotional send-off for a diplomat known for his affection and dedication to work. Salman Bashir has attained super-annuation but he didn’t opt to seek extension. He has been designated as high commissioner to India in place of Shahid Malik. Salman Bashir will assume his new responsibilities towards the end of April. The reception was arranged in the corridor of the auditorium of the Foreign Office and was conducted by director general Dr. Saeed Khan Mohmand. Additional foreign secretary Ikramullah Khan Mehsud paid rich tributes to the outgoing foreign secretary for the services rendered by him with devotion, dedication and commitment to promoting the cause of Pakistan for 36 years and more so as the foreign secretary in very challenging times. Salman Bashir in his address said that the assignment here is not the job and service but lifelong commitment and dedication. “We are Pakistan wherever we serve irrespective of the place of assignment and we must keep Pakistan’s interests as our top priority.” He expressed hope that the officers will extend their fullest cooperation to his successor Jalil Abbas Jailani who is a dear friend and capable officer. Mrs Taranum Salman Bashir President Pakistan Foreign Office Women Association (PFOWA) also spoke on the occasion. Parliamentary secretary for foreign affairs in the National Assembly Ms Palwasha Khan was present in her office exchanging views with a US diplomat. Foreign Minister Ms Hina Rabbani Khar will host a farewell dinner in honour of the outgoing foreign secretary on Tuesday next where the senior diplomats of the federal capital will also be present.
