Tazeen Akhtar
Whenever our friends in diplomatic community of Islamabad leave for their new assignments, We recall the joke or saying, that Diplomats cry two times in their life. First , when they are posted in Pakistan. Second, when they are transferred from Pakistan. That is because before landing in Pakistan , they are concerned for what they get the wrong image from some media. When they arrive, they see the total different picture. They are welcomed everywhere. So, when they leave, they are sad. They miss Pakistani hospitality a lot.
Dean of diplomatic corp , Ambassador Turkmenistan H.E Atadjan Movlamov hosted a farewell reception in honor of the outgoing Ambassadors of Australia and Ethiopia. CEO of Serena Hotels Mr. Aziz Bolani was also present.
The reception, held at Serena Hotel in Islamabad, paid tribute to H.E. Neil Hawkins, and H.E. Jemal Beker Abdula for their years of dedicated diplomatic service and contributions to strengthening bilateral and multilateral relations in Pakistan.
Additional Secretary MOFA, H.E Hamid Asghar Khan, addressing the reception, spoke highly about the services of both the envoys for building and strengthening the cooperation between Pakistan and their respective countries.
H.E Jemal Beker’s name will remain shining in the history of Ethiopia Pakistan relations as he opened the embassy in Islamabad as first Ambassador. He worked very hard to bring both nations closer. His biggest achievement is direct flight of Ethipian Airline between Addis Ababa and Karachi. He promoted green initiative and provided opportunity to Pakistanis many times to become 7 years younger than their documented age.
H.E Neil Hawkins and spouse will be remembered always for their contribution to highlight the culture and cuisine of Pakistan. The couple was always enthusiastic to visit traditional places in the cities of Pakistan and having local food their. His contribution in education, girls encouragment and empowerment is notable among other prominent sides of his work.
Members of the diplomatic community attended the farewell in large number to express appreciation for the professionalism and commitment demonstrated by both outgoing envoys during their respective tenures.
Ambassador Philippines H.E Emmanuel R. Fernandez rightly said , “Farewell receptions such as this are a cherished tradition within the diplomatic corps. They provide an opportunity to acknowledge the work of departing diplomats, reinforce diplomatic camaraderie, and celebrate the spirit of international cooperation that underpins effective diplomacy.”
We at our org “Pakistan in the World” wish the best to both the envoys who did a great job and enhanced relations, connections and cooperation between Pakistan and their respective countries. We will always remember their role in bridging the gaps and promoting the knowledge about their states and people in our country.
Envoys of EU, Greece, Hungary Present Credentials to President Pakistan
