Geetika Srivastava Makes History as First Indian Woman to Lead High Commission in Pakistan Amid Strained Relations

New Delhi: In a groundbreaking appointment, Geetika Srivastava, a seasoned diplomat, has been entrusted with a monumental responsibility. She is set to become the first Indian woman to lead the Indian High Commission in Pakistan. With diplomatic relations between the two nations experiencing tension, this move carries significant implications.

Geetika Srivastava, an Indian Foreign Service officer from the 2005 batch, will take on the role of charge de affairs at the Indian High Commission in Islamabad, stepping into the shoes of Dr. M. Suresh Kumar. This role bestows her with the charge of overseeing the Indian High Commission, a post left vacant since the recall of Ajay Bisaria in 2019.

The appointment gains further significance due to the current strained diplomatic climate between India and Pakistan. Notably, both nations refrained from posting High Commissioners following the tumultuous events surrounding the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir. As the highest-ranking diplomat in the absence of a High Commissioner, Geetika Srivastava's role takes on added importance, akin to that of a Joint Secretary-rank officer.

Her appointment is noteworthy for multiple reasons. Firstly, she is the first Indian woman to assume this pivotal position. Prior instances saw women diplomats posted at the Pakistan High Commission, but not at this influential level. Additionally, her appointment arrives amidst diplomatic complexities between the nations, demanding deft navigation to restore and enhance bilateral relations.

The deployment of Geetika Srivastava also holds significance in light of the non-family status bestowed upon the Indian High Commission in Islamabad. Amidst an atypical situation, her selection for this leadership role signifies the government's confidence in her capabilities.

Currently serving as a Joint Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs, Geetika Srivastava brings a wealth of experience to her new role. Proficient in Mandarin, she previously served in the Indian Embassy in China. Her distinguished career includes roles such as Director of the Regional Passport Office in Kolkata and the Indian Ocean Region Division in the Ministry of External Affairs.

As diplomatic dynamics continue to evolve, Pakistan has appointed Saad Ahmad Waraich as Charge d'Officer at the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi. This appointment marks a response to the evolving diplomatic landscape.

The appointment of Geetika Srivastava is indeed a momentous step, carrying both symbolic and practical implications. As she takes on her new role, all eyes will be on her efforts to navigate the intricate diplomatic terrain between India and Pakistan.