Country’s former foreign secretary Najmuddin A Shaikh passed away early Friday in Karachi, his family and the Foreign Ministry announced, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.
The family said “It is with the most profound sorrow that we announce that former Foreign Secretary and Ambassador, Najmuddin A Shaikh, passed away peacefully at his home on early Friday morning in Karachi.”
The statement further said “We ask all to offer Surah-e-Fatiha to ease his passage to a more tranquil world.”
Najmuddin Shaikh’s funeral prayers will be held on 28 March (today) after Asr prayers at the DHA Phase VIII Graveyard in Karachi.
He is survived by his wife of over 50 years, Raana Shaikh; his two children, Nadir and Nermeen.
Former foreign minister Khurram Dastgir Khan expressed his condolences for Shaikh’s death. “One of the dwindling breed of diplomats interested deeply in the world and with the ability to analyse global events,” the former MNA said in a post on X.
The Foreign Ministry in its statement said: “It is with profound sorrow that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announces the passing of Mr. Najmuddin A Sheikh, a distinguished diplomat and former Foreign Secretary of Pakistan (1994–1997). He returned to his Creator this morning in Karachi, at the age of 85.
“An alumnus of the University of Sindh and the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University, Mr. Sheikh dedicated nearly four decades of his life to serving Pakistan with exceptional commitment and distinction. His illustrious career included ambassadorial postings in Germany, Canada, the United States, and Iran, where he skillfully advanced Pakistan’s diplomatic interests. As Foreign Secretary, he brought visionary leadership to the role, shaping foreign policy with strategic foresight and mentoring generations of diplomats who followed in his footsteps.
“Renowned for his diplomatic acumen, Mr. Sheikh was a steadfast advocate for international cooperation, regional stability, and human rights. His contributions earned him widespread respect at home and abroad, with colleagues and counterparts alike admiring his integrity, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to Pakistan.
“Beyond his diplomatic service, he served on the Board of Governors of the Institute of Strategic Studies, Islamabad, and was a founding member of the Sindh Council of Foreign Relations.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs extends its deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all those who had the honor of knowing and working alongside him. His legacy of service and statesmanship will endure as an inspiration for future generations.”
Reporter Anwer Abbas