For the first time in the history of its relations with Turkey, the government of Pakistan has appointed a woman as its ambassador in Ankara. Amna Baloch, a veteran Pakistani diplomat, officially began her duties on Monday, November 2.
Turkey's Daily Sabah newspaper reported that Ms. Baloch has over three decades of diplomatic experience and previously served in important roles such as the Additional Secretary for Asia-Pacific at Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This appointment is seen as a significant step towards strengthening the role of women in Pakistan's diplomacy.
Throughout her professional career, Amna Baloch has served in Pakistan's diplomatic missions in Denmark and Sri Lanka, and also held the position of Consul General in Chengdu, China. Her diverse experience in various diplomatic fields provides a strong foundation for her new mission in Turkey.
This appointment comes at a time when Pakistan and Turkey have initiated extensive efforts in recent years to expand bilateral cooperation in political, economic, defense, and cultural fields.
The news is particularly noteworthy when contrasted with the situation in neighboring Afghanistan, where the Taliban government has imposed severe restrictions on women. The Taliban have banned girls' education beyond the sixth grade and women's university studies, and even prevent female employees at many international organizations from going to their offices.
This contrast highlights the different situations for women in the two neighboring countries; while Pakistan is taking steps to empower women in key areas, women in Afghanistan are facing the loss of their fundamental rights.
Source: Daily Sabah
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