ISLAMABAD: Foreign Secretary Ambassador Syrus Sajjad Qazi concluded his tenure on Tuesday, marking the end of a largely uneventful one-year term. The Foreign Office announced Qazi’s retirement, noting he was the 32nd Foreign Secretary of Pakistan.
Ambassador Amna Baloch, who was appointed as his successor last month, will take over the role. Baloch, the first woman from Sindh to assume this position in a long time, is set to lead the Foreign Office during a period of significant challenges.
Qazi’s tenure, despite initial high expectations, ended with limited notable achievements. The Foreign Office faced ongoing issues, including administrative paralysis and reduced influence in foreign policy formulation and implementation. These challenges have also contributed to discontent among officers.
In his farewell address, Qazi expressed gratitude to his mentors, colleagues, and the Foreign Office team, acknowledging their support throughout his career. He emphasized the importance of integrity and dedication, advising his colleagues to remain honest and remember their crucial role in national defense.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar praised Qazi for his strategic acumen in handling global diplomacy.
Ambassador Baloch, who previously served as Pakistan’s ambassador to the European Union, Belgium, and Luxembourg, will have a two-year tenure until September 2026. Her extensive diplomatic experience is expected to bring stability to the role. She is the second woman to hold the position and the first from Sindh in recent history.
