Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved key diplomatic appointments on the advice of Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. The summary for the changes included two new ambassadorial postings. Shafqat Ali Khan, the current Foreign Office spokesperson, will now serve as Pakistan’s ambassador to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, the present envoy in the UAE, will be posted to Russia. These decisions are part of Pakistan’s wider diplomatic reshuffle.
Shafqat Ali Khan is a seasoned diplomat with experience in several key roles. He previously served as Pakistan’s ambassador to Poland and Russia. Currently, he holds the position of spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. His new role in the UAE is seen as a strategic move. The UAE is a vital partner for Pakistan in trade, investment, and overseas employment.
Faisal Niaz Tirmizi has also held significant diplomatic roles in the past. He has been Pakistan’s ambassador to the UAE and is now set to take charge in Moscow. Russia remains an important country for Pakistan’s energy and defense interests. Tirmizi’s move to Russia signals continuity in maintaining strong bilateral relations.
Meanwhile, Khalid Jamali, Pakistan’s current ambassador to Russia, will return to Islamabad. He has been appointed as Additional Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This position holds administrative importance and involves policy-level decision-making. Jamali is expected to contribute with his experience in multilateral diplomacy.
These appointments show Pakistan’s focus on placing experienced diplomats in key global positions. Strong diplomatic leadership is crucial in regions like the Middle East and Russia. With shifting global dynamics, Pakistan aims to strengthen ties with allies through skilled representation.