Outgoing FS Syrus Sajjad Qazi played a pivotal role in shaping Pakistan’s diplomatic engagements across the globe: Ishaq Dar

ISLAMABAD, Sep 19 (SABAH): Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar has said that the Outgoing Foreign Secretary Muhammad Syrus Sajjad Qazi played a pivotal role in shaping Pakistan’s diplomatic engagements across the globe.

This was stated by Ishaq Dar during the farewell reception of Outgoing Foreign Secretary Muhammad Syrus Sajjad Qazi held at MoFA on Wednesday night.

“Today we bid farewell to a distinguished public servant and an upright officer of the Foreign Service of Pakistan. Muhammad Syrus Sajjad Qazi has served Pakistan with great distinction over the last 34 years. We celebrate his distinguished career, honour his remarkable service for Pakistan and appreciate his numerous contributions. For over three decades, Syrus has been at the heart of Pakistan’s foreign policy, navigating the complexities of global diplomacy with commitment and integrity” Ishaq Dar.

Ishaq Dar said that as the Foreign Secretary and earlier as Ambassador of Pakistan to Turkiye and to Hungary, he made his mark in promoting Pakistan’s foreign relations and developing partnerships with countries around the globe. He played a pivotal role in shaping Pakistan’s diplomatic engagements across the globe, Ishaq Dar said.

Deputy PM and Foreign minister said that Syrus’s ability to assess situations with clarity and provide thoughtful, strategic advice has been invaluable to the Government of Pakistan. During high level meetings, he stood out with his profound insight rooted in deep understanding of the foreign policy priorities and national interest of Pakistan.

Ishaq Dar said that as we worked closely together over the last several months, I found Syrus to be a brilliant individual with sharp intellect and with strong commitment to the service of Pakistan. One of his most commendable qualities that stands out is his unshakeable honesty. I found him to be true to the principles of transparency and ethical governance, Ishaq Dar said.

“Over a short period of time, I came to rely on his wise counsel and his deep understanding of Pakistan’s foreign policy challenges and priorities. His ability to calmly assess even the most difficult situations; offer sound advice; and, most importantly, remain steadfast in his principles has been inspiring” Ishaq Dar said.

“I also witnessed the confidence he inspired in others, at the leadership level, within our Ministry and among foreign counterparts. I saw first-hand his dedication to this Ministry and for the welfare of all the officers and staff. I will miss his steady presence in the halls of our ministry, as I know many of you will too. I am confident that he has inspired a new generation of diplomats which will continue to serve Pakistan for the next several decades. I am confident as a member of the Federal Public Service Commission, Syrus will continue to make his contributions in building the Foreign Service of Pakistan” Ishaq Dar said.

Ishaq Dar said that Syrus, in the 34 years of service to Pakistan you have left an indelible mark not only on our foreign policy but on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Congratulations on completing a distinguished career full of remarkable accomplishments. May the next chapter in your life, as a member of the Federal Public Service Commission, be as fulfilling and rewarding as the last.

Ishaq Dar said that “on behalf of the entire Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Government of Pakistan, I extend my deepest gratitude for your years of service. We wish you the very best in all your future endeavours. My very best wishes and prayers for you. Syrus, we will miss you. Your contributions will always be appreciated and valued”.

Meanwhile in her remarks the new Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch at the farewell reception of Outgoing Foreign Secretary Muhammad Syrus Sajjad Qazi held at MoFA thanked the outgoing Foreign Secretary for his leadership and his contributions over a 34 year long diplomatic career.

Amna Baloch praised his professionalism, acumen and warm demeanour. Amna Baloch shed light on his role as a Foreign Secretary while appreciating his skillfullness in navigating the ever changing geopolitical landscape. The new foreign secretary spoke about her admiration for Ambassador Syrus’s humane nature and exceptional interpersonal skills. Amna Baloch wished him and his family all the best for his next assignment as Member FPSC. She paid rich tributes to a stellar diplomatic career.