Bored young ‘dips’ take the plunge

'Young Diplomats Group' formed, younger set of diplomats socialise, learn about each other's cultures and...

ISLAMABAD: The younger set of diplomats assigned to a high security capital like Islamabad have few options for entertainment. Those newly posted here have few friends and social gatherings are few and far between to strike a friendship.

Fed up with this constant whining among the diplomatic community, one young Egyptian diplomat decided to step forward for his fellow ‘dips.’ “I took the initiative with the help of some friends of forming a Young Diplomats Group,” said Tarek Kotb.

The Young Diplomats Group was established in January 2010 and held its first get-together in the lawns of the Egyptian embassy. With some 70 diplomats, the evening gave a kick start to the group with barbeque and music.

The diplomats organise a monthly gathering and not only do they get to know one another, but also learn about the host country’s culture and traditions. “We have the country’s food and play their music,” said Kotb. Countries which added to the evening’s pleasure and showed a taste of their culture were Argentina, Poland, the US and Australia.

However, it’s not all fun and no work. These young diplomats are also keen on learning more about the country of their duty. In addition to their monthly gatherings, the group has made an agreement with General Athar Abbas, Army spokesperson, to give them a monthly briefing on Pakistan Army’s efforts in combating terrorism and helping the flood affected people.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 29^th, 2010.