ISLAMABAD – A Historic Appointment in Diplomatic Circles
Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, currently serving as the spokesperson for Pakistan’s Foreign Office, has been appointed as the country’s new ambassador to France. This announcement was made by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, who confirmed that Baloch will assume her new role in the coming days.
Transition in the Foreign Office Leadership
This development coincides with the appointment of Shafqat Ali Khan, a seasoned diplomat, as the new spokesperson for the Foreign Office. The changes mark a strategic shift in Pakistan’s diplomatic leadership.
| Appointment | New Position | Date |
|---|---|---|
| Mumtaz Zahra Baloch | Ambassador to France | January 2025 |
| Shafqat Ali Khan | Spokesperson, Foreign Office | January 2025 |
An Illustrious Career in Diplomacy
Mumtaz Zahra Baloch brings a wealth of experience to her new position. Prior to her role as the Foreign Office spokesperson, she served in various key diplomatic positions:
| Position | Country/Location | Years |
|---|---|---|
| Ambassador to the Republic of Korea | Seoul, South Korea | 2020-2021 |
| Minister/Deputy Head of Mission | Beijing, China | 2015-2020 |
| Counselor for Political Affairs | Washington, DC, USA | 2006-2011 |
| Second Secretary at the Permanent Mission to the UN | Geneva, Switzerland | 1999-2002 |
Key Roles at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Baloch has held significant positions within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Islamabad, as outlined below:
| Position | Area of Responsibility | Years |
|---|---|---|
| Additional Foreign Secretary (Asia & Pacific) | Regional Diplomacy | 2021-2024 |
| Director (America) | US Relations | 2015-2020 |
| Director (Security Council and Human Rights) | UN Security Council, Human Rights Issues | 2012-2015 |
| Director (Strategic Planning) | Strategic Foreign Policy Planning | 2010-2012 |
Leadership at the Foreign Service Academy
From 2014 to 2015, Baloch served as Director (Academic Programme) at the Foreign Service Academy, Islamabad. Later, she became the Acting Director General, playing a key role in shaping Pakistan’s diplomatic future.
| Position | Institution | Years |
|---|---|---|
| Director (Academic Programme) | Foreign Service Academy | 2014-2015 |
| Acting Director General | Foreign Service Academy | 2014-2015 |
Academic Achievements and Global Expertise
Mumtaz Zahra Baloch’s educational background is equally impressive:
| Degree | Institution | Specialization |
|---|---|---|
| Master’s in Physics | Punjab University, Lahore | Physics |
| Master’s in International Relations | Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, USA | International Relations |
| Degree in European Studies and Public Administration | Ecole Nationale d’Administration, France | European Studies, Public Admin |
Significance of Her Appointment
Baloch’s diverse experience and academic credentials make her a pivotal choice for this high-profile diplomatic role. As a result, she is expected to strengthen bilateral relations and enhance Pakistan’s global standing as Pakistan’s ambassador to France. Moreover, her appointment will allow her to foster economic and cultural ties between the two nations, furthering diplomatic cooperation. Furthermore, she will play a key role in fostering economic and cultural ties between the two nations.
Conclusion
The appointment of Mumtaz Zahra Baloch as Pakistan’s ambassador to France is a testament to her exceptional career in diplomacy. Her leadership will undoubtedly contribute to advancing Pakistan’s interests on the global stage.
