“The diplomatic corps in Islamabad is of high quality,” said Pakistan’s Special Secretary for Foreign Affairs Amjad B. Siyal, officiating at a farewell luncheon for two outgoing envoys hosted by Adolfo Martin Saravia, the dean of the diplomat corps in Islamabad.

The Sri Lankan high commissioner, former Air Chief Marshal Jayalath Weerakkody and his wife are returning home after a four-year stay in Pakistan. “Now, it is time for retirement,” Mr Weerakkody said.

The dean joked that the high commissioner would have more time for golf in future.

For the outgoing Mauritius high commissioner, Mohammad Rashad Daureeawo, retirement also awaits him at home in the beautiful Indian Ocean island country. He was a political appointee and not a career diplomat.

He said that one of the downsides of being a diplomat is that one cannot stay forever in the country where one has been posted. He spoke with gratitude of his enjoyable time in Pakistan.

The host, Adolfo Martin Saravia, who has served in Pakistan for over a decade, is himself retiring in half a year’s time.

“Many will miss his elegant and pleasant receptions, as well as art exhibitions and musical events, when his time of departure comes,” said one of the diplomats at last week’s luncheon.

Published in Dawn February 16th , 2015

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