By Asad Cheema
ISLAMABAD: The Diplomatic Business Club has celebrated the 8th Annual International Day of Diplomats in the federal capital, gathering diplomats from around the world to honor their dedication to fostering global unity and cooperation.
With the theme ‘Diplomats – Defuse Crises and Shape Peace,’ the event highlighted the vital role of diplomacy in maintaining international stability.
Diplomatic Business Club Chairman Muhammad Umar Shah and Secretary General Ali Vazir warmly received guests and presented bouquets to the foreign diplomats. The event was graced by a diverse array of foreign dignitaries, including Mohamed Thoha, High Commissioner of Maldives; Dr. István GRAFJÓDI, Dy Head of Mission, Hungary; Nasser Al Sulaimani, Dy Ambassador of Oman, Abdulraheem Hasan, Dy Head of Mission, Jordan; Soita Khwatenge, Minister Counselor, Kenya; along with diplomats from France, Kyrgyz Republic, Iran, and Honorary Consuls from Morocco and Tunisia, as well as representative from the UN World Food Program.
Special Assistant to the Prime Minister and Minister of State who was the Chief Guest on the occasion, Fahd Haroon informed that the role of diplomacy is evolving in the era of digital media and technology. “Digital media platforms offer new avenues for dialogue and engagement allowing us to reach broader audiences, and foster greater understanding amongst diverse groups”, he stated.
He expressed his openness to support the business community and academic sectors, providing access to data vital for research and development. Haroon also expressed his hope that under Muhammad Umar Shah’s leadership, the Diplomatic Business Club would continue organizing impactful events in Islamabad to support Pakistan’s economic progress.
The Guest of Honor, Senator Mushahid Hussain Syed, spoke passionately on the role of diplomats in shaping international relations. He highlighted Pakistan’s successful diplomatic efforts, which contributed to the liberation of North African nations from colonial rule.
Senator Syed also emphasized Pakistan’s strategic partnerships with regional allies, including Oman, which indirectly facilitated in paving the way for CPEC’s development by selling of Gwadar to Pakistan in 1958.
The keynote was delivered by Tariq Khan Jadoon, Vice President of FPCCI, who praised the Diplomatic Business Club for its dedication in promoting Pakistan’s prosperity and economic growth through diplomatic and business initiatives.
Advisor to the President of FPCCI, Afshan Malik extended a warm welcome, ensuring the diplomats a hospitable and enriching experience in Pakistan.
Ali Vazir opened the event, emphasizing the significance of International Day of Diplomats, marking the third consecutive year the Diplomatic Business Club has celebrated this day in Pakistan. He also shared the Diplomatic Business Club’s accomplishments, including organizing 22 events and managing over 300 others. He announced upcoming Single Country B2B Exhibitions by the Club in Sri Lanka, Thailand, Malaysia, Hungary, Romania, and Poland in early 2025.
The vote of thanks was delivered by Ishtiaq Baig, Patron of the Diplomatic Business Club and Honorary Consul General of Morocco. He expressed deep appreciation to Chief Guest Fahd Haroon, Senator Mushahid Hussain, Nasir M. Qureshi (President of Islamabad Chamber of Commerce), and all attendees. Baig also highlighted the success of Pakistan-Morocco trade relations, reaching $800 million in the past year.
The evening concluded with the presentation of mementoes to all foreign diplomats serving in Islamabad, symbolizing appreciation for their dedicated service. A delightful dinner featuring Pakistani and continental dishes offered a perfect setting for cultural exchange and camaraderie.
