Islamabad (Adnan Hameed): In a significant diplomatic development, Ambassador Khalil Hashmi officially commenced his tenure as Pakistan’s Ambassador to China, succeeding Ambassador Moin ul Haque. The distinguished diplomat, who had an extensive career spanning 29 years, arrived in Beijing over the weekend to a warm reception by Mr. Zhang Maoming, Deputy Director General of the Asia Department of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
In his inaugural official engagement, Ambassador Hashmi presented a copy of his credentials to Mr. Hong Lei, Director General of the Protocol Department. Expressing gratitude for the gracious welcome, Ambassador Hashmi affirmed his commitment to strengthening the already robust ties between Pakistan and China, drawing on his prior experience in Beijing from 2008-2010.
Director General Hong Lei conveyed his best wishes for a successful tenure to Ambassador Hashmi, assuring him of full support in his diplomatic responsibilities. Ambassador Hashmi’s extensive diplomatic career includes serving as Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Geneva since November 2019 and as Deputy Permanent Representative at Pakistan’s Permanent Mission to New York.
Before assuming his role in China, Ambassador Hashmi held key positions in Islamabad, including Director General of the United Nations, European Region and Arms Control Divisions. His earlier diplomatic assignments include a posting at the Pakistan Embassy in Copenhagen from 1999 to 2002.
This appointment marks a pivotal moment in diplomatic relations between Pakistan and China, and Ambassador Khalil Hashmi’s wealth of experience positions him to navigate the complex dynamics between the two nations effectively.