Govt not in a rush to reshuffle envoys

ISLAMABAD: The government is not rushing to bring changes in the lineup of ambassadors and high commissioners currently serving in various capitals worldwide.

Non-career ambassadors and high commissioners appointed by previous administrations under contract are considered to have resigned with the installation of the new government, in line with their appointment agreements.

Well-placed diplomatic sources told The News on Thursday that Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has been thoroughly briefed on the structure and operations of the Foreign Affairs Ministry, including the performance of the country’s missions abroad. Dar, who is also actively involved in managin the affairs of the ruling Pakistan Muslim League (PMLN) and is currently engaged with upcoming Senate elections, has urged diplomats posted abroad to increase their engagement with Pakistani immigrants to address their concerns.

As the president of the Overseas PMLN, Dar has instructed party workers and leaders to support the diplomatic missions in enhancing Pakistan’s image in their respective host countries. International leaders have been sending messages of congratulations and well-wishes to Ishaq Dar on his assumption of the Foreign Affairs portfolio.

Dar clarified that there is no immediate proposal under consideration for a change of envoy to the United States. Proposals for changes in ambassadors or high commissioners in international capitals will be discussed by the Foreign Office next month.

According to sources, 16 ambassadors or high commissioners are serving in various capitals on a contractual basis, maintaining the 20 percent quota allocated for non-career envoys. Additionally, around 70 ambassadors or high commissioners from the Foreign Service of Pakistan are fulfilling their duties worldwide.

Pakistan’s ambassador to the US Sardar Masood Khan has completed his two-year contractual period in Washington. Initially appointed by the PTI government in its final days in February 2022, he has since served under the PDM government and the caretaker administration. With a distinguished diplomatic career, Masood previously served as Pakistan’s permanent representative to the United Nations and ambassador to China.