Islamabad To bid farewell to the envoys of Cuba – Jesus Zenin Buergo Concepcion; India – TCA Raghavan and Iran - Alireza Haghighian, and their spouses, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, Ambassador of Argentina Rodolfo Martin-Saravia hosted a reception which was attended by senior members of the Diplomatic Community or their representatives; heads of International Organisations and of course, spouses who accompanied their ‘other halves.’ Taking it seniority wise, the Dean began his speech with words about his friendship with his Cuban colleague who, he said has been instrumental in creating awareness about Cuba in Pakistan as well as improving bilateral relations between the two countries. Not forgetting Dulce, he said she has been active with IFWA and was a popular person and has numerous friends. Amidst light hearted laughter he said this was the second time he was bidding his Indian colleague farewell. “When I first arrived in Pakistan he was the DCM, he said. “Then a few years later I welcomed him as head of the mission.” Acknowledging that Indian/Pakistani envoys have a somewhat difficult time in each other’s country, he said the high commissioner had handled well the situations that arose every now and again. “His wife too, has been active and is a popular lady,” he said. Of Ambassador Haghighian he said he had been working quietly to improve bilateral relations between Iran and Pakistan and many important visits had been undertaken during his tenure. “My good wishes go with all of them.” In response Ambassador Concepcion thanked the Dean and his colleagues; spoke of the rapid response by Cuba after the 2005 earthquake in sending medical help and the scholarships Cuba has awarded Pakistani students who are now qualified doctors and have come home. “Pakistan has been our home for five years. We have many friends whom we shall miss,” he said. High Commissioner Raghavan thanked the Dean and his colleagues; admitted there had been ‘ups and downs,’ which was part of his work but the diplomatic community had been helpful and supportive. “I am retiring and going on to other things but I have many friends in Pakistan” he said. “Hopefully we will meet up again sometime/someplace.” Ambassador Haghighian also thanked the Dean and his colleagues for their friendship and support; the improving bilateral relations between his country and Pakistan and wished everyone the best for the future. In conclusion Pakistani hand worked miniature chest of drawers with brass inlay were presented to each envoy on behalf of all their colleagues and two new ambassadors were introduced – ambassador of Italy, Stefano Pontecorvo and ambassador of the USA, David Hale. After this refreshments were served, giving an opportunity for those present to get acquainted if they had not already done so.
