6 days ago
Qatar's unprecedented transformation aresult of its vision: Ex-Pakistani diplomat
Syed Ishtiaq Hussain Andrabi, former Ambassador of Pakistan to Norway and Chile, has described Qatar's remarkable transformation over the past four decades as an unprecedented achievement, reflecting its modern vision and progress.
Andrabi, who served at the Pakistani mission in Doha from 1985 to 1989, initially as a third secretary and later as a second secretary, visited Qatar briefly on his way to Toronto, where he reunited with his old friends.
Andrabi, who served in various capacities in Egypt, the UK, Lebanon, the US, Brazil, Sri Lanka, and Argentina, was astonished by the rapid development in Qatar, attributing its progress to the nation's visionary leadership.
During his stay in Doha, en route to Canada, where his son lives, he visited the iconic Pak Shamaa School, the oldest community educational institution, established in 1958.
Upon his arrival at the school, he received a warm welcome from MA Shahid, President of the School Management Committee; Nabila Kaukab, Principal; Muhammad Abrar Hussain, Member of the Board of Governors, and faculty members.
Andrabi had high words of praise for Shahid, who took charge of the school in 1987, revitalised it, and transformed it into one of the country's top educational institutions, dedicated to imparting quality education to expatriate community in Qatar.
Earlier, Prime Logistics, in collaboration with the Pakistan Arts Society–Qatar (PAS), hosted a luncheon in honour of Andrabi at the Spice and Sizzle Restaurant, attended by prominent community members and his old friends.
PAS General Secretary Adeel Akbar welcomed the gathering and highlighted Andrabi's instrumental support in advancing his forum's efforts to organise various high-profile events during his stint in office in Qatar.
Speaking on the occasion, Andrabi thanked the community members for organising a reception in his honour and giving an opportunity to meet old friends. 'After spending four years in Qatar, I returned to Pakistan in 1989 with fond memories of Doha, where I experienced
some of the best years of my life. I have always found the Pakistani community to be hardworking, united, and willing to support one another. During my current visit, cherished memories have been rekindled once again,' remarked Andrabi.
Osama Idrees, Community Welfare Attaché at the Pakistan Embassy in Doha, warmly welcomed Andrabi to Qatar, expressing deep appreciation for his
extensive experience and invaluable contributions as a seasoned career diplomat.
GD Khan Bangash, host and Managing Director of Prime Logistics, expressed his heartfelt gratitude and appreciation as he proposed the vote of thanks. He paid tributes to Andrabi for his unwavering commitment and invaluable contributions to community services throughout his tenure in Qatar.