By Rafiq Vayani
KARACHI: Mr. Ikram Sehgal, patron in Chief hosted a farewell in honour of H.E. Nicolas Galey, Ambassador of France to Pakistan, and Mr. Alexis Chahtahtinsky, Consul General of France in Karachi, as they concluded their respective diplomatic assignments in Pakistan.
The event brought together distinguished members of the diplomatic community, business leaders, academics, intellectuals and prominent citizens to bid farewell to the two French diplomats and acknowledge their contribution towards strengthening Pakistan-France relations.
Mr. Ikram Sehgal, in his remarks, appreciated the services of Ambassador Nicolas Galey and Consul General Alexis Chahtahtinsky during their tenure and highlighted the importance of France-Pakistan relations. He noted that the relationship between the two countries extends beyond government-to-government contacts and encompasses trade, investment, education, culture, tourism and people-to-people exchanges.
He particularly appreciated the efforts of both diplomats in maintaining close engagement with Pakistan’s business and intellectual communities and in promoting greater understanding between the people of France and Pakistan.
Speaking at the occasion, Ambassador Nicolas Galey reflected warmly on his time in Pakistan and expressed gratitude for the hospitality and friendship extended to him throughout his tenure. He recalled his interactions with Pakistani leaders, officials, business representatives, academics and members of civil society, noting that these engagements had given him a deeper appreciation of Pakistan’s people, culture and potential.
Ambassador Galey also emphasized the importance of continuing to strengthen bilateral relations. During his tenure, France-Pakistan cooperation remained active in areas including education, trade, investment, public health and development cooperation. He expressed confidence that the relationship between the two countries would continue to grow in the years ahead.
Consul General Alexis Chahtahtinsky also spoke fondly of his years in Karachi and recalled the warmth and affection he had received from the people of the city. He said that Karachi had provided him with many memorable experiences and meaningful friendships.
His tenure has coincided with significant efforts to strengthen France-Pakistan business and cultural ties. He remained actively engaged with the Pakistan-France Business Alliance, the business community and cultural institutions, helping promote greater interaction between French and Pakistani stakeholders.
Mr. Ikram Sehgal, while offering his farewell remarks, said that although diplomatic assignments come to an end, the friendships and relationships developed during such assignments often endure for many years. He expressed the hope that Ambassador Galey and Consul General Chahtahtinsky would continue to remain ambassadors of goodwill for Pakistan and France wherever their future assignments take them.
The evening concluded with expressions of gratitude, warm wishes and prayers for their continued success in their future endeavours.
The farewell was a reflection of the enduring bonds of friendship between Pakistan and France and a celebration of the diplomatic, cultural and personal ties that continue to connect the two nations.
