Pakistan has appointed Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad as the country’s next foreign secretary.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar announced the decision on Wednesday. Asim Iftikhar currently serves as Pakistan’s permanent representative to the United Nations.
Dar said he was confident that Asim Iftikhar would lead the Foreign Office with clarity and professionalism. He added that the new foreign secretary would continue efforts to protect and advance Pakistan’s national interests.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved the new appointment, along with the related assignment for outgoing Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch.
Amna Baloch to Retire on September 17
Current Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch will retire from government service on September 17, 2026.
Baloch became Pakistan’s 33rd foreign secretary in September 2024. She has served in the post during a challenging period for Pakistan’s foreign policy. Dar praised her service and leadership at the Foreign Ministry.
After retirement, Baloch will take charge as Pakistan’s ambassador to Türkiye. Dar expressed confidence that she would continue to serve Pakistan in her new diplomatic role.
Asim Iftikhar Brings Wide Diplomatic Experience
Asim Iftikhar has held several senior diplomatic posts during his career.
Before his current UN assignment, he served as Pakistan’s ambassador to France and Monaco. He also worked as Foreign Office spokesperson and held senior roles in the ministry.
Earlier, he served as Pakistan’s ambassador to Thailand. His diplomatic career has also included assignments in Africa, Europe and Asia.
Focus on Pakistan’s Foreign Policy
The appointment comes as Pakistan faces major regional and global diplomatic challenges.
Dar said the Foreign Office would continue to advance Pakistan’s interests under Asim Iftikhar’s leadership. He also praised the work of Amna Baloch and previous foreign secretaries.
Asim Iftikhar will therefore take charge at a key time for Pakistan’s external relations. His experience at the United Nations is expected to be important in his new role.
