Pakistani community bids farewell to outgoing Bangladesh envoy
Tribune News Network
Doha
The outgoing Ambassador of Bangladesh to Qatar, HE Nazrul Islam, acknowledged that farewells remain emotionally difficult even after 31 years of diplomatic service. He spoke candidly about the personal connections he formed in Qatar, crediting the country's warmth and the vibrant camaraderie of the South Asian diaspora for making him feel at home, despite being away from his own family. The ambassador's spouse currently serves as the Ambassador of Bangladesh to Canada, while their children also live overseas — allowing him to dedicate himself fully to his responsibilities in Qatar.
Ambassador Nazrul Islam was speaking at a farewell breakfast reception hosted by the Pakistani community as part of its Culinary Diplomacy Forum Series at Sarhad Premium Restaurant. The event brought together diplomats, dignitaries and leaders from the Pakistani and Bangladeshi communities to celebrate his tenure and bid him farewell, as he prepares to assume his new post as Bangladesh's Ambassador to Russia.
Coordinated by veteran journalist Ashraf Siddiqui with the support of Pakistani community leaders, the gathering featured tributes and expressions of appreciation. Ambassador Islam thanked Siddiqui and the organising team for their hospitality, describing such events as important opportunities to strengthen goodwill and cross-community friendship.
Earlier, Ashraf Siddiqui welcomed guests and thanked the ambassadors, dignitaries, and leaders of the Pakistani and Bangladeshi communities for their presence. He also acknowledged the support of Usman Arshad, CEO of Darb AlShemal and a young Pakistani entrepreneur; Dr Khurram Iqbal; and businessman Babar Khalil, for making the event possible. On the occasion, the ambassadors were presented with a gift of Pakistani mangoes.
Speaking separately to Qatar Tribune, Ambassador Islam reflected on Bangladesh–Qatar relations with evident pride. He described Qatar as small in size but diplomatically significant, highlighting the vital role of over 430,000 Bangladeshi workers in supporting the country's economy and infrastructure.
During his tenure, the Embassy prioritised expanding ties beyond traditional labour exports. Cultural diplomacy—including Bangladeshi art exhibitions and performances—helped introduce Qatari audiences to Bangladesh's rich heritage.
The event also featured remarks by Osama bin Javaid, a senior journalist with Al Jazeera known for his reporting from conflict zones. He reflected on the resilience of people affected by war and emphasised the importance of gatherings like the Culinary Diplomacy Forum in fostering mutual understanding.He also stressed the urgency of addressing climate change—describing it as an even greater threat than conflict—and called for collaboration among business and community leaders to confront shared challenges.
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