KARACHI: Ikram Sehgal hosted a farewell reception for French Ambassador Nicolas Galey and Consul General Alexis Chahtahtinsky as both diplomats completed their assignments in Pakistan.

The gathering brought together members of the diplomatic community, business leaders, academics, intellectuals and other prominent citizens. Guests paid tribute to the two diplomats and their role in strengthening Pakistan-France relations.

Sehgal highlights bilateral ties

Sehgal praised Galey and Chahtahtinsky for their work during their time in Pakistan. He also stressed the importance of strong relations between Pakistan and France.

He said the relationship goes beyond official government contacts. It also covers trade, investment, education, culture, tourism and people-to-people links.

Sehgal also praised both diplomats for maintaining close contact with Pakistan’s business and intellectual communities. Their engagement, he said, helped promote greater understanding between the people of the two countries.

French ambassador recalls Pakistan experience

Galey spoke warmly about his time in Pakistan and thanked the country for its hospitality and friendship.

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He recalled meetings with Pakistani leaders, government officials, business representatives, academics and civil society members. He said these interactions gave him a deeper understanding of Pakistan, its culture and its potential.

The ambassador also called for continued efforts to strengthen bilateral ties.

During his tenure, France and Pakistan continued cooperation in areas such as education, trade, investment, public health and development.

Galey expressed confidence that the relationship would continue to grow in the coming years.

Consul general remembers Karachi

Chahtahtinsky also reflected on his years in Karachi. He spoke about the warmth he received from the people of the city and the friendships he developed during his assignment.

His tenure included efforts to strengthen business and cultural links between France and Pakistan.

He remained engaged with the Pakistan-France Business Alliance, local business leaders and cultural institutions. These efforts helped create greater interaction between French and Pakistani stakeholders.

A farewell marked by friendship

Sehgal said diplomatic assignments may end, but friendships built during those assignments can last for many years.

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

The evening ended with expressions of gratitude and warm wishes for both diplomats as they begin their next assignments.

The farewell reception also reflected the long-standing ties between Pakistan and France. It highlighted the diplomatic, business, cultural and personal connections that continue to bring the two countries closer.