Diplomatic change sweeps capital

Pakistan is witnessing a notable shift in its diplomatic landscape as several foreign envoys prepare to depart, having completed their tenures or exited due to political changes back home. The wave of departures includes seasoned ambassadors, career diplomats, and a few whose exits were unexpected.

Among the most distinguished is Hungarian Ambassador Bela Fazekas, who holds a rare place in diplomatic history for serving two separate terms in Pakistan. First posted in 2007, Fazekas returned years later for a second stint — an unusual reappointment in international diplomacy. His familiarity with Pakistan's political and cultural fabric enabled him to deepen bilateral ties in trade, education, and cultural exchange.

Fazekas joins a select group of diplomats to have served twice in the same country. A similar precedent was set by Aybek Osmanov, former Ambassador of Uzbekistan to Pakistan, who also held the position in two separate terms. Such cases remain rare, as most ambassadors are rotated after completing a single tenure.

The list of outgoing diplomats also includes: Austria's Ambassador Andrea Wicke, who is retiring from the foreign service after a career marked by strengthened Austria-Pakistan cooperation, especially in economic and cultural spheres.

Iraq's Ambassador Hamid Abbas Lafta, who has already departed after concluding his term. A new Iraqi envoy is expected soon. South Korea's Ambassador, due to leave in the coming weeks, oversaw notable advances in technology partnerships, automotive collaboration, and skilled labour exchanges.

EU Ambassador Riina Kionka, who led the European Union delegation with a strong focus on trade, governance, and human rights. Denmark's Ambassador Jakob Linulf, who earned recognition for his proactive stance on development cooperation and climate resilience.

In some cases, ambassadorial exits appear linked to political shifts in their home countries: Kyrgyzstan's Ambassador left abruptly, with no official successor named yet.