By Safina Khan/ London
Pakistan has appointed Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad as the country’s next Foreign Secretary, following the upcoming retirement of Ambassador Amna Baloch.
Ambassador Amna Baloch, Pakistan’s 33rd Foreign Secretary, will retire from government service on 17 September 2026, after a distinguished diplomatic career spanning more than three decades. She has served as Foreign Secretary since 11 September 2024, leading the Ministry of Foreign Affairs through a significant and challenging period in Pakistan’s diplomatic history.
The Foreign Ministry commended Ambassador Baloch for her dedicated public service and leadership, saying she leaves behind a legacy of professionalism and commitment to Pakistan’s national interests.
Following her retirement, Ambassador Amna Baloch will take up a new diplomatic assignment as Pakistan’s Ambassador to Türkiye.
Meanwhile, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, who is currently serving as Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, has been appointed as the next Foreign Secretary.
The Foreign Ministry expressed confidence that Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad will lead the Foreign Office with “clarity, professionalism and purpose” and continue efforts to advance Pakistan’s diplomatic and national interests.
His appointment is also expected to build upon the work carried out by Ambassador Amna Baloch and her predecessors at a time when Pakistan faces an increasingly complex regional and international diplomatic environment.
The Foreign Ministry further confirmed that Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has approved both assignments.
Reported by Safina Khan | VOA News UK
