ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s former foreign secretary, Riaz Hussain Khokhar, passed away on Tuesday after a brief illness. His funeral prayers will be offered at the H-8 graveyard in Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT), and he will be laid to rest in the same graveyard.
Born on December 31, 1942, Riaz Hussain Khokhar served as Pakistan’s Ambassador to India, the United States, and China before assuming the top post of Foreign Secretary at the Foreign Ministry.
Former bureaucrats and political party leaders have expressed their condolences over the sad demise of Riaz Khokhar, paying tribute to his professional conduct during his tenure in the government of Pakistan at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).
Riaz Khokhar, who served as Foreign Secretary from June 2002 to February 2005, joined the Foreign Service of Pakistan on October 10, 1966.
In September 2003, Riaz Khokhar briefed a group of Kashmiri leaders on the upcoming India-Pakistan talks before heading to New Delhi for discussions with India.
Politicians, Former Colleagues Express Condolences Over Riaz Hussain Khokhar’s Death
Condolences poured in from politicians and former colleagues. Pakistan’s former Ambassador at the UN in New York, the US, and the UK, Maleeha Lodhi, expressed deep condolence over his death. “Very sorry to hear that Riaz Khokhar has passed away. He was always such a strong advocate of a progressive Pakistan, and fiercely independent. Served as Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary among many other diplomatic posts in tough situations.”
Very sad to learn that Riaz Khokhar has passed away. He served Pakistan with distinction. Was a strong nationalist, a caring human being and wonderful friend. May Allah rest him in peace.
— Maleeha Lodhi (@LodhiMaleeha) December 26, 2023
Senior Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader Sherry Rehman also expressed sympathy for the late Ambassador’s family and loved ones.
Very sorry to hear that Riaz Khokhar has passed away. He was always such a strong advocate of a progressive Pakistan, and fiercely independent. Served as Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary among many other diplomatic posts in tough situations. Was always ready on the phone or in person… pic.twitter.com/y8i3CYHL5g
— SenatorSherryRehman (@sherryrehman) December 26, 2023