GILGIT-BALTISTAN’S CAREER DIPLOMATS

Syed Shams Uddin Gilgit-Baltistan's Career Diplomats: A Testament to the Region's Talent A recent report on social media, dated January 1, 2025, highlighted the ascent of highly educated and talented individuals from Gilgit-Baltistan to prominent positions in Pakistan's Foreign Service, vividly showcasing the region's abundant talent. Historically, notable diplomats from Baltistan, Bunji (Astore) and Diamir district rose to prominence in Pakistan's Foreign Service over time, reflecting the intellectual and professional caliber nurtured in this region. Last year, it was learned that one of these diplomats held the key position of Additional Secretary, Foreign Affairs, in Islamabad. Today, this tradition of excellence continues, exemplified by the appointment of Muhammad Saleem from Goharabad, Diamer, as Pakistan's High Commissioner to Canada in simultaneous with assigning the so much important and crucial role of the spokesman for Foreign Ministry to Shafqat Ali Khan. As informed by Ghulam Nabi Raikoti, there are currently about five Ambassador level career diplomats in the Foreign Ministry who belong to Gilgit-Baltistan. Understandably, hese diplomats, representing Gilgit-Baltistan, have carved a distinct niche for themselves on the global and national stage, embodying excellence and dedication in their field. Prior to the 1980s, representation from Gilgit-Baltistan in Pakistan’s prestigious Foreign Service was almost negligible. The only exception was the late Prince Barkat Ali Khan, son of the late Mir of Nagar State, who successfully secured a position in this elite cadre. Additionally, it is understood that Mir Ghazanfar Ali Khan, son of Mir Jamal Khan, was offered an opportunity to join the Foreign Service but apparently chose not to pursue it. A significant milestone came in 1982 with the induction of another highly educated individual from Gilgit-Baltistan. Mir Badsha, hailing from Minwar in Gilgit, earned his place in the Foreign Service through a competitive examination held that year. More recently, it was reported a year or so before, that another individual from Gilgit city, likely from the Amphary area, had risen to a senior position within the Foreign Ministry. Furthermore, yet another young qualifier of CSS hailing from the same area was inducted into the Foreign Service of Pakistan a year or so before. These developments collectively signify a remarkable increase in the number of individuals from Gilgit-Baltistan now serving in this esteemed cadre. This growing representation highlights the region’s burgeoning talent and its contributions to Pakistan’s diplomatic endeavors. However, the landscape changed dramatically after the 1980s. With the expansion of educational opportunities and an increasing awareness of career prospects, Gilgit-Baltistan saw a growing number of aspirants competing for positions in Pakistan’s Foreign Service. This heightened competition not only created avenues for talented individuals from the region but also reshaped Gilgit-Baltistan’s identity as a center of intellectual and professional excellence. This transformation underscores the profound socio-educational changes that have taken root in the region. These advancements have empowered the people of Gilgit-Baltistan to secure their place in Pakistan’s diplomatic ranks and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s international engagements. Muhammad Saleem: Strengthening Pakistan-Canada Relations Ambassador Muhammad Saleem, a distinguished diplomat from Diamer’s picturesque Goharabad, brings decades of expertise and an unwavering commitment to advancing Pakistan’s global partnerships. Recently appointed as Pakistan's High Commissioner to Canada, he exemplifies visionary leadership and a dedication to fostering international cooperation. With a Master’s degree in Diplomacy and Strategy from the National University of Malaysia, Ambassador Saleem joined Pakistan’s Foreign Service in 1995. His illustrious career includes key roles at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Islamabad and diplomatic postings in Germany, Bahrain, Romania, and Canada. From 2020 to 2022, he served as Pakistan's High Commissioner to Tanzania, where he successfully strengthened bilateral ties and cultivated impactful alliances. In his current capacity, Ambassador Saleem is focused on deepening Pakistan-Canada relations. His strategic priorities encompass fostering collaboration in political and economic spheres, as well as promoting investment, trade, higher education, cultural exchange, and people-to-people connections. Guided by a dual vision of reinforcing existing ties and unlocking new avenues of cooperation, he aims to advance shared interests and elevate the partnership between the two nations to new heights. A Reflection of Gilgit-Baltistan's Promise The success of individuals like Muhammad Saleem and Shafqat Ali Khan underscores the immense reservoir of talent and potential within Gilgit-Baltistan. Their remarkable achievements, earned through dedication and hard work, highlight the region's capability to produce leaders who excel not only nationally but also on the global stage. Such accomplishments serve as powerful examples for the youth of Gilgit-Baltistan, inspiring them to aim higher and pursue excellence in their chosen fields. These trailblazers demonstrate that with education, perseverance, and vision, even those from remote and historically underrepresented areas can make significant contributions to the nation’s progress and international standing. For the people of Gilgit-Baltistan, figures like Ambassador Saleem and Shafqat Ali Khan are a source of immense pride, embodying the aspirations of the region and showcasing its evolving identity as a hub of intellectual, professional, and cultural promise. Their journeys illuminate the path for future generations, fostering hope and reinforcing the belief that no dream is beyond reach with effort and determination. The appointment of the latter to the esteemed position of Spokesperson for Pakistan's Foreign Ministry is a testament to his exceptional diplomatic acumen and leadership skills. This role, pivotal in shaping and communicating the nation’s foreign policy, underscores his ability to manage such a critical and high-stakes assignment with competence and poise.