Pakistan appoints new foreign secretary

Islamabad, Apr 26 (UNI) The Pakistan government has appointed Salman Bashir, a career diplomat, as the country's new foreign secretary.

Mr Bashir, who would replace Riaz Muhammad Khan, is currently Pakistan's envoy to China.

Confirming the appointment, foreign office spokesman Muhammad Sadiq said here that Riaz Muhammad Khan, has requested to be relieved of his duties due to personal reasons and health.

The government has accepted his request and appointed the new foreign secretary, he added.

Mr Bashir joined the foreign office in 1976 and also served as ambassador in different countries and Assistant Director Asia Pacific, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

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