Amna Baloch Takes Charge As 2nd Woman Foreign Secretary | World News

On Wednesday, Pakistan appointed its second female Foreign Secretary, Amna Baloch, marking a significant milestone in the country's diplomatic history. Baloch, the 33rd individual to hold the position, succeeds Syrus Sajjad Qazi, who retired after a distinguished career. Baloch, a Grade-22 officer in the Foreign Service of Pakistan, was officially appointed last week and follows in the footsteps of Tehmina Janjua, who served as Foreign Secretary from 2017 to 2019. Baloch, aged 58, holds a Master's degree in History and joined the Foreign Service in 1991. Over her career, she has undertaken several high-profile roles, including serving as Consul General in Chengdu, China (2014-2017), and as High Commissioner to Malaysia (2019-2023). She has also held diplomatic positions in Denmark, Sri Lanka, and recently as Ambassador to the European Union, Belgium, and Luxembourg. In addition to her diplomatic roles, Baloch has been a Joint Secretary at the Prime Minister's Office and an Additional Secretary in the Foreign Minister's office. She is married to Zulfiqar Ali Khan, and they have two daughters. Syrus Sajjad Qazi, who retired after 34 years in diplomacy, previously served at the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi among other significant roles.