Amna Baloch, a Grade 22 officer, has been appointed as Pakistan’s new foreign secretary. The Establishment Division issued the official notification of her appointment following the prime minister’s approval.
Previously serving as Pakistan’s ambassador to Belgium, Baloch will now assume one of the country’s most pivotal diplomatic roles. Her appointment comes at a time when Pakistan is facing significant global challenges and looking to strengthen its international ties.
Baloch will take office on September 11, following the retirement of the current foreign secretary, Muhammad Syrus Sajjad Qazi, on September 10. Qazi will then take up a role as a member of the Federal Public Service Commission.
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Baloch’s selection as foreign secretary highlights her extensive experience and proficiency in diplomacy. As ambassador to Belgium, she played a crucial role in bolstering Pakistan’s diplomatic relations in Europe, particularly with Belgium.
She will become Pakistan’s second female foreign secretary, after Tehmina Janjua, the first woman to hold the position. Baloch, a seasoned diplomat, has served in numerous international capitals and brings a wealth of experience to her new role.
Before her position in Belgium, Baloch was Pakistan’s high commissioner to Malaysia. She holds a master’s degree in history and began her diplomatic career in 1991, joining the Pakistan Foreign Service. Her career includes key roles both in Pakistan and abroad, such as consul general in Chengdu, China; minister counsellor in Colombo, Sri Lanka; joint secretary at the Prime Minister’s Office; and additional secretary in the foreign minister’s office.
Faisal Trimizi, currently Pakistan’s ambassador to the UAE, is expected to succeed Baloch as the ambassador to Brussels and the European Union.
Additionally, Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, the Foreign Office spokesperson, will become Pakistan’s ambassador to France, succeeding Asim Iftikhar, who was recently appointed as Pakistan’s additional permanent representative to the United Nations in New York. Iftikhar is expected to eventually replace Ambassador Munir Akram, a veteran diplomat.
Other diplomatic appointments include Janbaz Khan as the new ambassador to Brunei, Malik Farooq as envoy to South Africa, and Mohammad Saleem as Pakistan’s ambassador to Canada.
