Over the years, Pakistani diplomats have proven their mettle on the world stage: Sohail Mahmood


ISLAMABAD, August 18 (SABAH): Foreign Secretary Sohail Mahmood said on Thursday that over the years, Pakistani diplomats have proven their mettle on the world stage, earning praise for their skills and professionalism, from friends and foes alike.

Sohail Mahmood expressed these views on the occasion of special awards ceremony organized for the officers of 40th Specialized Diplomatic Course upon completion of their training at Foreign Service Academy. “I am delighted to join you all as we recognize the impressive achievements of three young diplomats,” he added.

He said, “The Foreign Service Academy has come a long way since the time I was a probationary officer. In those days, we were trained in a more modest establishment that was called the Foreign Service Training Institute. I am glad that young officers nowadays have access to this much more spacious and better-equipped facility in the heart of Islamabad’s Diplomatic Enclave.”

The ministry will of course continue to provide all possible support in the discharge of FSA’s crucial mission, he said. He also congratulated the young officers who received awards for their outstanding performance. He said this is obviously a moment of pride for them and their families, whose support is always the most critical factor in such success.

Sohail Mahmood expressed his pleasures over the success of Shahnawaz, Fatima and Aleena and said this happened due to their hard work and dedication. The foreign secretary said that he is pleased to interface with the probationary officers of Foreign Service of Pakistan and extended his warm welcome towards them.

He said, “You will find that the Foreign Service of Pakistan is not just a career or a profession. It is a higher calling that demands dedication, hard work, and a commitment to the pursuit of excellence. Diplomacy in the 21st century is at once more challenging and more rewarding.”

Sohail Mahmood said that he would like to appreciate the efforts of former Director General Ambassador Zahid Nasrullah, who recently retired and Director Programme Asima Rabbani for taking the young diplomats under their wings.

“Finally, I would again like to congratulate the award winners. I pray that they and indeed, all our young officers continue to shine brightly and be a source of pride for the institution and the nation. I wish them every success in the future,” he concluded.