ISLAMABAD: The Foreign Office praised female diplomats from Pakistan and around the world on Wednesday for their invaluable work representing their nations and establishing themselves as models of professionalism.
Women diplomats from Pakistan and other nations attended the event held in honor of International Women’s Day here at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs along with Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Hina Rabbani Khar. In a fireside chat, MoS Khar stated that Pakistan’s female diplomats were leaving a lasting impression in their field and significantly advancing the nation. She added that these contributions had been crucial to the country’s development and that Pakistani women were always up for challenges.
She highlighted that the stellar contributions of Pakistani women diplomats had left an indelible mark on the canvas of diplomacy.
She acknowledged the meritorious services of female Pakistani diplomats in the service of the country, who are working in Pakistan and abroad with traditional zeal, enthusiasm and hard work.
To young diplomats, she advised not to get bogged down by circumstances around them and focus on good learning experiences.
A panel discussion among the women diplomats highlighted the significant role played by them for their countries. Those who participated in the discussion included High Commissioner of Maldives in Pakistan Farzana Zahir, Austria’s ambassador Andrea Wicke, European Union ambassador in Pakistan Dr Riina Kiyonka, Charge d’Affaires of China Pang Chunxue and Philippines Charge d’Affaires Maria Agnes.
Secretary Ministry of Information and Broadcasting Shahera Shahid said women comprised 45 percent of her ministry, who were showing exemplary professional excellence in their respective areas.
She said the country’s 51 percent women population could be turned into a valuable workforce if provided equal opportunities.
She said while celebrating the women’s day, the moment also needed a word of acknowledgment for men for extending support and helping the women shine and thrive in their fields.
Earlier, Foreign Office Spokesperson and Director Asia Pacific Mumtaz Zahra Baloch in her welcome address felicitated the women diplomats who contributed to their countries with zeal and zest.
A video tribute to Pakistani women in diplomacy was presented for reaching new heights and representing the country at international stage with panache.
