A memorable farewell the Hungarian way

Islamabad

There are farewells and then there are those that are memorable and one of these was hosted by Ambassador of Hungary Istvan Szabo and Emilia Szabo for Ambassador of Argentina Rodolfo Martin-Saravia and Susana Martin-Saravia, as well as Ambassador of Japan Hiroshi Inomata and Midori Inomata. It was attended by many of their Pakistani friends and a few colleagues, the warm atmosphere in their house - both literally and figuratively speaking – making them welcome!

After a reception period, guests were invited to the basement where there was a surprise awaiting them – a five piece live band calling themselves, ‘Wild Mangoes,’ with founder of FACE, Zeejah Fazli (guitar); Muqeet Khan (Vocals) Ali Tahir (bass) Sindor Mihalko (drums) Attila Kocsis (rhythm guitar) Before they began their performance, a young and pretty vocalist, Sarah Malik, sang, ‘Don’t cry for me Islamabad’ a paraphrased version of the well known song, ‘Don’t Cry for me Argentina,’ recorded by Julie Covington for the play ‘Evita’ and later by Madonna, for the movie based on the life of Eva Peron, a legendary figure in Argentine politics! It was a hit with the audience, who loved the idea, as well as the message it gave. The band played a couple of numbers for which the Japanese ambassador was invited to play the drums and he sportingly obliged even though he was not feeling very well. Bosnian ambassador Nedim Makerevic was requested to sing and also obliged with the number, ‘I saw her standing there.’

Addressing his guests the host began by saying envoys come and leave – it is their way of life but in this case it was difficult to accept the fact that these two colleagues were leaving. He then first gave a comprehensive account of his Argentinean colleague’s many skills, which it is not possible to give here but in essence, he said he was an ‘excellent diplomat and team leader; best friend in need and best companion in lighter moments; he is highly respected by Pakistanis and foreigners alike and his experience in diplomacy combined with a fantastic human character is a real asset.’ “We are proud to be counted among his friends,” he said and concluded by complimenting Susana for standing by his side and both of them for being proactive in social and charity events.

Of his Japanese colleague he said both he and his wife had become immediately popular because of their active participation in events and they had achieved more in two and a half years that envoys who served for four to five years. “You are a diplomat of elegance and efficiency. You have travelled around the country and attended many events,” he said, adding they were a highly respected couple. He concluded by referring to the envoys drum playing skills; saying a few words about British High Commissioner, Philip Barton- whose transfer had come as a surprise as they only got to know about it a day earlier - and wishing him and both couples all the best for the future.

Emilia Szabo then gave a humourous run down about Rodolfo’s activities right up to the number of minutes he has spent in the country!

In his response the Dean said he had given many speeches but now he was ‘speechless’ at the wonderful manner the hosts had arranged the farewell and he and Susana would never forget it.

“I don’ know if Islamabad will cry for me but I will certainly cry for Islamabad,” he said receiving a hearty round of applause from those who were there. He went on to speak briefly about his years in Pakistan - the ups and downs; the triumphs and the disappointments and concluded by saying he would definitely return for visits.

Ambassador Inomata thanked his host and said their stint in Pakistan was short but very satisfying; he had been happy to be part of the local as well as diplomatic community and glad to participate in the cultural life of the capital. “Both Midori and I will remember the time spent here among friends like you and Rodolfo,” he said and concluded by thanking everyone for their friendship and support.

After this, traditional gifts of ‘travel bags’ and a painted, wooden spoon were presented to the guests of honour; the Wild Mangoes gave a rousing performance and dinner with home cooked Hungarian specialties was served.