The federal government has introduced competitive tests and stricter eligibility rules for employees seeking postings at Pakistan’s overseas trade missions.
The Ministry of Commerce approved the new policy to improve transparency and ensure merit-based appointments abroad.
The policy covers three categories of employees: Commercial Assistants, Drivers and Messenger-cum-Drivers, and Security Guards.
It introduces written examinations, practical assessments, interviews and performance evaluations for eligible candidates.
Commercial Assistants Must Pass Written and Skill Tests
Under the new policy, Commercial Assistants will be selected through a combination of examinations and interviews.
Written and practical assessments will carry 60% weightage. Interviews will account for 30%, while performance evaluation reports will contribute the remaining 10%.
The written examination will carry 70 marks, while practical skills will account for 30 marks. Candidates must secure at least 50% to qualify.
The Pakistan Institute of Trade and Development in Islamabad will conduct the examinations.
Successful candidates will also complete four weeks of training before receiving their overseas assignments.
Five Years of Service Required
Employees must complete at least five years of continuous service in the Ministry of Commerce to qualify.
Drivers and Messenger-cum-Drivers will face seniority and fitness assessments. Applicants must hold a driving licence that is at least five years old.
Security Guards will also be selected through seniority and fitness evaluations.
Employees returning from overseas postings must serve two years at headquarters before applying again.
The policy also makes employees ineligible if they have completed two foreign postings or served six consecutive years at an overseas mission.
Foreign Postings Limited to Three Years
The new rules normally limit overseas appointments to three years. Extensions will only be allowed in exceptional circumstances.
Employees must also obtain security clearance and medical fitness certificates before deployment.
Selected officials must submit written undertakings against seeking foreign nationality, permanent settlement or asylum in their host countries.
The ministry will advertise vacant positions and publish eligibility criteria before accepting applications.
The final merit list and proposed posting stations will require approval from the Commerce Secretary.
The policy aims to strengthen accountability and ensure qualified government employees represent Pakistan in international trade missions.
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