Asim Iftikhar Ahmad calls for innovation, inclusive diplomacy on Foreign Service Day

Islamabad: Foreign Secretary Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad has called for innovation, inclusive participation and a broader diplomatic approach to advance Pakistan’s national interests amid a rapidly changing global landscape.

In his message on the Foreign Service of Pakistan Day 2026, the foreign secretary highlighted the contributions of generations of Pakistani diplomats, saying their dedication, professionalism and commitment to national service remained a source of strength and inspiration for the country’s diplomatic corps.

He said Pakistan was marking the occasion at a significant juncture in its diplomatic journey, with the country’s growing geopolitical relevance, expanding international engagement and increasingly recognised role in promoting dialogue, building bridges and facilitating peaceful solutions underscoring the importance of principled and purposeful diplomacy.

“These achievements inspire confidence, but also place upon us a greater responsibility to sustain this momentum and explore new avenues and opportunities,” he said.

Ambassador Asim emphasised that the evolving international environment was transforming the nature of diplomacy, requiring the Foreign Service to move beyond traditional statecraft and embrace emerging areas, including economic diplomacy, public diplomacy, strategic communication and new technologies.

He stressed the need for Pakistani diplomats to broaden their horizons, adopt innovative approaches and develop the capacity not only to respond to global changes but also to anticipate and shape them in line with the country’s strategic priorities.

The foreign secretary said Pakistan’s diplomatic strength lay in its people, particularly the talent and fresh perspectives of younger officers, the growing contributions of women diplomats and the collective experience of the country’s diplomatic corps.

He underscored the importance of building a dynamic, inclusive and forward-looking Foreign Service capable of meeting emerging challenges and identifying new opportunities in an increasingly complex international environment.

Paying tribute to the institution’s legacy, Ambassador Asim called on serving diplomats to draw inspiration from the dedication and achievements of their predecessors while strengthening the Foreign Service’s capacity to respond to changing global realities.

He urged Pakistani diplomats to aspire to play a proactive role in shaping international developments rather than merely keeping pace with them.

“Let us aspire not merely to keep pace with a changing world, but to help shape its course, ensuring that Pakistan’s voice is heard, its interests are advanced, and its rightful place in the community of nations is strengthened,” he said.

The Foreign Service of Pakistan Day commemorates the contributions of the country’s diplomatic community in representing Pakistan abroad, advancing its foreign policy objectives and promoting its interests and international engagement.