On Friday, 16 June 2023, Ambassador Azhar attended the 50th Foundation Day of Institute of Strategic Studies in Islamabad. Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. His Excellency the High Commissioner was accompanied by Mr. Muhammad Zulasri Bin Rosdi, First Secretary of the High Commission. The event was also attended by the Diplomatic Corps in Islamabad.
In his welcome remarks, the Director General of ISSI, Ambassador Sohail Mahmood, highlighted the institute's history, achievements, and contributions over the past 50 years. He emphasized the importance of think-tanks in the policy ecosystem, bridging the gap between academia and practitioners.
Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari who is the Patron of ISSI in his address discussed Pakistan's policy vis-a-vis the global environment, emphasizing the interlocking crises of food, fuel, finance, and climate change. He highlighted the intensifying great-power contestation and stressed the need for Pakistan's foreign policy to be imaginative, multi-dimensional, and adaptable. Ambassador Azhar took the opportunity to personally congratulate Foreign Minister Bilawal on the anniversary and achievements of ISSI.
