Former Foreign Secretary Riaz Khokhar passed away in Islamabad on Tuesday. His funeral prayers will take place at the H-8 graveyard in Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT), where he will be laid to rest.
Born on December 31, 1942, Riaz Hussain Khokhar held key diplomatic roles, including ambassadorships to India, the United States, and China, culminating in his term as Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary.
Condolences from former bureaucrats and political leaders poured in, recognizing and paying tribute to Riaz Khokhar for his professional conduct during his service at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).
Very sad to learn that Riaz Khokhar has passed away. He served Pakistan with distinction. Was a strong nationalist, a caring human being and wonderful friend. May Allah rest him in peace.
— Maleeha Lodhi (@LodhiMaleeha) December 26, 2023
Very sorry to hear that Riaz Khokhar has passed away. He was always such a strong advocate of a progressive Pakistan, and fiercely independent. Served as Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary among many other diplomatic posts in tough situations. Was always ready on the phone or in person… pic.twitter.com/y8i3CYHL5g
— SenatorSherryRehman (@sherryrehman) December 26, 2023
Amb Riaz Khokhar has passed away. He was a giant of a man- an extraordinary human being with a heart of gold, a professional to the core who cared immensely about Pakistan. He had the sharpest memory and was never afraid of speaking the truth. He is irreplaceable. @Mumtazzb
— Tehmina Janjua (@TehminaJanjua) December 26, 2023
Serving as foreign secretary from June 2002 to February 2005, he joined the Foreign Service of Pakistan on October 10, 1966. In September 2003, Riaz Khokhar briefed Kashmiri leaders on the upcoming India-Pakistan talks before heading to New Delhi for discussions,
Establishment Division Opposes Transfer Of IG Police And DC Islamabad, Asks ECP To Review Its Decision
Meanwhile, the Secretary of the Establishment Division appeared before the Election Commission of Pakistan to address the case involving the removal of Adviser to the Prime Minister Ahad Cheema, as well as the Islamabad police chief and deputy commissioner from their respective roles.
A five-member bench, led by the chief election commissioner, convened to discuss the cases related to the ousting of these three officials from their positions.
During the session, it was disclosed that the notification for Ahad Cheema’s removal was issued on Monday night.
Inamullah, the Establishment Division Secretary, appealed to the commission for a reconsideration of the decision to remove the Islamabad Deputy Commissioner and Inspector General of Police. He highlighted that the Interior Ministry had presented a report from the Intelligence Bureau concerning terrorist incidents.
Furthermore, he mentioned the existence of a report detailing the law and order situation in Islamabad, providing additional context to the Election Commission.
The secretary emphasized that the Interior Ministry urged the ECP to reevaluate its stance on the removal of the two officers, advocating for their retention in their roles.
