Former Foreign Secretary Riaz Khokhar Passes Away
Former foreign secretary Riaz Khokhar passed away in Islamabad on Tuesday. His funeral prayers are scheduled to take place at the H-8 graveyard in Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT), and he will be laid to rest in the same graveyard.
Born on December 31, 1942, Riaz Hussain Khokhar had an illustrious career, serving as Pakistan’s ambassador to India, the United States, and China before assuming the prestigious position of Foreign Secretary at the Foreign Ministry.
Condolences poured in from former bureaucrats and political leaders, expressing their sorrow over Riaz Khokhar’s demise.
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They paid tribute to his professional conduct during his tenure at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) in service to the government of Pakistan.
Very sad to learn that Riaz Khokhar has passed away. He served Pakistan with distinction. Was a strong nationalist, a caring human being and wonderful friend. May Allah rest him in peace.
— Maleeha Lodhi (@LodhiMaleeha) December 26, 2023
Very sorry to hear that Riaz Khokhar has passed away. He was always such a strong advocate of a progressive Pakistan, and fiercely independent. Served as Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary among many other diplomatic posts in tough situations. Was always ready on the phone or in person… pic.twitter.com/y8i3CYHL5g
— SenatorSherryRehman (@sherryrehman) December 26, 2023
Amb Riaz Khokhar has passed away. He was a giant of a man- an extraordinary human being with a heart of gold, a professional to the core who cared immensely about Pakistan. He had the sharpest memory and was never afraid of speaking the truth. He is irreplaceable. @Mumtazzb
— Tehmina Janjua (@TehminaJanjua) December 26, 2023
Riaz Khokhar, who served as foreign secretary from June 2002 to February 2005, joined the Foreign Service of Pakistan on October 10, 1966. In September 2003, he briefed a group of Kashmiri leaders on the upcoming India-Pakistan talks before departing for New Delhi for the discussions.
