Pakistan’s UN envoy Asim Iftikhar named new foreign secretary

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Wednesday announced the appointment of Pakistan’s permanent representative to the United Nations, Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, as the country’s new foreign secretary.

“I am delighted to also announce that Ambassador Ahmad, who is currently Pakistan’s permanent representative to the UN, will be the next Foreign Secretary of Pakistan,” FM Dar said in a post on X.

“I am confident that, under Ambassador Iftikhar’s leadership, the Foreign Office will continue to advance Pakistan’s interests with clarity, professionalism and purpose, building on the important work undertaken by Ambassador Amna Baloch and all her predecessors,” he added.

Moreover, FM Dar commended Amna Baloch, the current foreign secretary, for her “dedicated service and leadership of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs during a consequential period in Pakistan’s diplomatic history”.

“Baloch leaves behind a legacy of dedicated public service and carries with her our warmest wishes,” he stated.

FM Dar said that Baloch would assume charge as Pakistan’s ambassador to Türkiye after her retirement.

“I am confident she will continue to serve Pakistan with distinction in this new role,” he said.

According to the foreign minister, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had also approved the aforementioned assignments.

Baloch has been serving as Pakistan’s 33rd foreign secretary since September 11, 2024. She will retire from government service on September 17.

In a post on X, Ambassador Ahmad also hailed his appointment as “a great honour”.

“Deeply humbled by the confidence and trust reposed by the leadership. Looking forward to carrying out together this responsibility in advancing supreme national interest,” he said.

“Thankful to Allah for His blessings, and to parents, family, friends and colleagues for their support and prayers.”