Asim Iftikhar Ahmad Appointed Pakistan’s New Foreign Secretary, Amna Baloch to Retire on September 17

ISLAMABAD: Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad has been appointed as Pakistan’s new Foreign Secretary, replacing Amna Baloch, who will retire from government service on September 17, 2026.

The appointment of Asim Iftikhar Ahmad has been approved by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar also announced that Amna Baloch, Pakistan’s 33rd Foreign Secretary, will retire after a distinguished diplomatic career spanning more than three decades.

Asim Iftikhar Ahmad is currently serving as Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York. He is expected to return to Islamabad and formally assume charge as Foreign Secretary after completion of the transition process.

A senior career diplomat, Asim Iftikhar Ahmad has held several important diplomatic assignments during his career. His appointment comes at a significant time as Pakistan faces a range of regional and international diplomatic challenges and seeks to strengthen its engagement with other countries and multilateral organisations.

Amna Baloch assumed charge as Foreign Secretary on September 11, 2024, becoming Pakistan’s 33rd Foreign Secretary. The Foreign Office has commended her services and leadership during her tenure.

There are also reports that following her retirement, Amna Baloch may be appointed as Pakistan’s ambassador to an important country. However, no specific country has been officially announced in this regard so far.

The change of Foreign Secretary is expected to take effect after Amna Baloch’s retirement, with Asim Iftikhar Ahmad set to lead the Foreign Office at a time of considerable regional and international diplomatic activity.