KARACHI, August 25, 2026: Patron-in-Chief Ikram Sehgal hosted a farewell reception in Karachi for French Ambassador to Pakistan Nicolas Galey and Consul General of France in Karachi Alexis Chahtahtinsky, marking the conclusion of their respective diplomatic assignments.

The gathering brought together members of the diplomatic community, business leaders, academics, intellectuals and prominent citizens to acknowledge the diplomats’ contributions to Pakistan-France relations and their engagement with Pakistani society during their tenures.

Sehgal, in his remarks, praised both diplomats for their efforts to strengthen bilateral ties and highlighted the broad nature of relations between Pakistan and France.

He said the relationship extends beyond government-to-government engagement and includes trade, investment, education, culture, tourism and people-to-people contacts.

Diplomacy Beyond Government Channels

Sehgal particularly appreciated the efforts of Galey and Chahtahtinsky to maintain close contact with Pakistan’s business and intellectual communities.

He said such engagement had helped promote greater understanding between the people of the two countries while creating opportunities for stronger economic and cultural cooperation.

The farewell reception also provided an opportunity for guests to reflect on the diplomats’ contributions and their interaction with Pakistani institutions and communities.

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Galey Reflects on His Pakistan Assignment

Ambassador Nicolas Galey spoke warmly about his time in Pakistan and expressed gratitude for the hospitality and friendship he received during his diplomatic tenure.

He recalled meetings with Pakistani political leaders, government officials, business representatives, academics and civil society members.

According to Galey, these interactions gave him a deeper appreciation of Pakistan’s people, culture and potential.

He also stressed the importance of continuing to develop bilateral relations, noting that cooperation between France and Pakistan had remained active across areas including education, trade, investment, public health and development.

Galey expressed confidence that bilateral cooperation would continue to expand in the years ahead.

Karachi Memories for French Consul General

Consul General Alexis Chahtahtinsky also reflected on his time in Karachi, recalling the warmth and hospitality he experienced in the city.

He spoke about the friendships and professional relationships developed during his assignment and highlighted efforts to strengthen business and cultural connections between France and Pakistan.

During his tenure, Chahtahtinsky remained engaged with the Pakistan-France Business Alliance, business representatives and cultural institutions.

His engagement helped facilitate interaction between French and Pakistani stakeholders across commercial and cultural sectors.

Farewell Marks End of Assignments, Not Relationships

Sehgal said diplomatic assignments eventually come to an end, but relationships and friendships established during such postings can continue for many years.

He expressed hope that Galey and Chahtahtinsky would continue to serve as ambassadors of goodwill for Pakistan and France in their future assignments.

The evening concluded with expressions of appreciation and warm wishes for the diplomats’ future endeavours.

The reception ultimately highlighted the longstanding Pakistan-France relations, bringing together diplomatic, business, cultural and intellectual circles to celebrate the ties connecting the two countries.