Raza Bashir Tarar A Diplomatic Bridge Connecting Pakistan To The World

  • 14 Dec - 20 Dec, 2024
  • Mag The Weekly
  • VIEWPOINT

On NATO cross-border attack in 2011 which resulted in martyrdom of 24 Pakistani soldiers, a bold and realistic statement was made by the Pakistan’s Acting Permanent Representative to the UN, in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). This statement keep echoing for many months in the world media as Pakistan’s response on violation of its territorial integrity. This man is none other than Pakistan’s Ambassador to Japan Mr. Raza Bashir Tarar.

Ambassador Raza Bashir Tarar has had a distinguished career in Pakistan’s Foreign Service, marked by diverse roles and significant contributions to strengthening Pakistan’s international relations. His career reflects expertise in diplomacy, bilateral cooperation, and multilateral engagements, alongside a commitment to advancing Pakistan’s strategic and economic interests globally.

Early Career and Education
Raza Bashir Tarar is a career diplomat with extensive experience in foreign relations and public policy. His academic background and training in diplomacy provided the foundation for his successful career. A notable aspect of his professional training includes proficiency in the Japanese language, acquired during his early service with Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This expertise has been instrumental in fostering Pakistan-Japan relations throughout his career.

Diplomatic Assignments
Ambassador Tarar’s diplomatic assignments span several key postings, both within Pakistan and abroad. His career reflects versatility, as he has held roles involving multilateral diplomacy, bilateral relations, and policy advisory positions. Below are highlights of his assignments:

1. United Nations
As Pakistan’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Tarar played a pivotal role in multilateral diplomacy. His work involved representing Pakistan on various global platforms, including peacekeeping initiatives, sustainable development, and disarmament discussions. His time at the UN enhanced Pakistan’s visibility and active participation in international decision-making.

During his stint in New York, Ambassador Tarar played an important role in bringing about the long pending increase in troop cost reimbursement made to countries like Pakistan that contribute to UN peace keeping operations. He also coordinated Pakistan’s successful bid for a Non-Permanent Seat in the UN Security Council. As Deputy Permanent Representative, he coordinated efforts for Pakistan’s strong role in the Security Council. Ambassador Tarar fearlessly advocated the Palestinian cause as well as forcefully presented Pakistan’s perspective on the Afghanistan situation.

2. Nairobi
In Nairobi, Ambassador Tarar was concurrently accredited to four countries (Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi and Eritrea). He was also Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN Environment Programme and UN Habitat. He also served as Chair of G77 in China, Vice Chair UNEP Committee of Permanent Representatives as well as Rapporteur of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA). In the bilateral sphere, his achievements included resolution of trade disputes like ensuring release of 1500 impounded rice containers from Pakistan.

3. Canada
Ambassador Tarar served as Pakistan’s High Commissioner to Canada, where he worked to strengthen bilateral relations. His tenure focused on trade and economic cooperation, as well as addressing issues concerning the Pakistani diaspora. He facilitated dialogue between Canadian and Pakistani institutions to enhance cultural and educational exchanges. During his tenure, Canada allowed inclusion of Pakistan in the Student Direct System (SDS) which reduced visa processing time for students coming to Canada from Pakistan.

A highlight of his tenure in Canada was restoration of PIA flights to and from Canada. It is noteworthy that India’s flights remained suspended. Ambassador Tarar also convinced Canadian authorities to recognize Shahmukhi script of Punjabi language. Ambassador Tarar’s role in the aftermath of the tragic killing of four Pakistanis by a racist criminal was widely appreciated by Canadian authorities and the Pakistani community.

4. Japan
Japan has been a significant focus of Ambassador Tarar’s diplomatic career. His initial posting in Tokyo (2003-2005) involved promoting cultural and economic ties between the two nations. In 2022, he returned to Japan as Pakistan’s Ambassador, bringing decades of experience to further solidify this critical partnership. His efforts in Japan have included initiatives to promote Pakistani human resource, particularly through programs like the Technical Intern Training Program (TITP) and the Specified Skilled Workers (SSW) scheme. These initiatives align with Japan’s need for skilled labour while offering employment opportunities for Pakistani workers.

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