French ambassador hosts dinner for dean of diplomatic corps

Islamabad 

Farewell events for the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, ambassador of Argentina, Rodolfo Martin-Saravia and spouse Susana include a few formal gatherings; many casual ones and a few ‘party time’ affairs depending on who the hosts are. 

Among the formal dinners; the one hosted by the ambassador of France, Martine Dorance was attended by a select number of guests, including the modest and soft speaking Chairman NAB, Chaudhry Qamar Zaman; MNA, PML F, Ghous Bux Maher; former Chief of Protocol MFA and potential ambassador to France, Moin Khan and Farah Moin; in charge or ‘commissioner’ elections PTI, Tasneem Noorani; Anwar and Samina Saifullah; the ambassadors of Switzerland and The Holy See and a few other friends of the guests of honour.

Guests were seated at a beautifully laid table with all the accoutrements that are required to make it so – flowers; sparkling silver and small decoration pieces. Speeches were made before dinner. In her remarks the hostess welcomed her guests and said she was happy to have a chance to host the dinner what with all the farewell breakfasts; lunches; high teas and dinners going on every day. She thanked the Dean for looking after the affairs of the diplomatic community and helping to solve their problems, while appreciating his friendship and advice to all of them when needed. “You and Susana have been very helpful and we value your friendship,” she said. “You have had a successful and rewarding stay in Pakistan and I wish you the best for the future.”

In his response the guest of honour complimented his hostess on her table saying he expected no less at the French residence; said it had been a pleasure to get to know her; went around the table saying a few words about those who were present – some in a light manner and others in all seriousness, depending on what he was talking about! “I have been here a long time and there have been ups and downs,” he said. “But the positives have been much, much more than the negatives, thanks to all my Pakistani friends. I will never forget their friendship and kindness.”     

 Dinner was leisurely and consisted of a French cuisine- obviously- making some guests regret that there was no proper French restaurant in the capital! Tea and coffee was served in the aesthetically furnished sitting room, with some guests strolling out to admire the garden and others continuing with their conversations - a pleasant end to an enjoyable evening.