Government to appoint new envoys at in key world capitals

The government has decided to appoint 'career diplomats' in key world capitals, Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said Friday, doing away with 'political appointments' in London, Washington and Riyadh.

The foreign minister, while briefing the media here, said that Nafees Zakaria would be the new Pakistani high commissioner to London, while Dr Asad Majeed will be appointed ambassador to the United States.

He, however, said the appointments will take some time, adding that the matter has already been discussed with Prime Minister Imran Khan.

Qureshi further said Raja Ali Aijaz is going to be posted in Riyadh as the new ambassador.

He said that all appointments included 'career diplomats'.

Hamid Asghar Khan will be appointed ambassador to Rabat and Shehryar Akbar Khan in Serbia, the minister said further.

He added that Sahibzada Ahmed Khan will discharge diplomatic responsibilities in Havana, whereas Ahmed Amjad Ali will be appointed consul general in Dubai.

Qureshi further said a consensus was reached on increasing investment in the energy sector, adding that establishment of an LNG terminal was also discussed during the talks.

He said the government held talks with United Arab Emirates (UAE) authorities regarding provision of oil on deferred payment facility.

"The UAE has also expressed desire for establishment of an oil refinery, besides building an LNG terminal," the minister said.