Islamabad, 5 September 2023 (TDI): Ambassador Tomáš Smetánka completed his four-year tenure in Pakistan. On September 4, 2023, as he bid farewell to Pakistan, he expressed his profound appreciation to his team at the Czech Embassy in Pakistan.
In a tweet, he stated that his team’s unwavering support had been instrumental in making his time in Pakistan stressless, productive, and enjoyable.
In a touching gesture, Ambassador Smetánka penned a personal note, accompanied by a memorable photograph, reflecting on his tenure.
This photograph captured a moment of harmony and shared achievements with his dedicated team. It served as a symbol of the close bond they had forged during his diplomatic assignment.
Throughout his tenure, Ambassador Smetánka’s focus extended beyond the traditional realms of diplomacy. His commitment to promoting gender equality and fostering cultural and diplomatic ties left an indelible mark on Czech-Pakistani relations.
Collaborating with the National College of Arts (NCA) Lahore, the Czech Embassy initiated the “Heroines of Pakistan” project.
This platform celebrated the accomplishments of Pakistani women from diverse fields while also acknowledging outstanding Czech women. This initiative not only recognized achievements but also promoted cultural exchange and mutual recognition.
Furthermore, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic supported a “Training of Trainers” program, empowering women’s rights defenders in Pakistan. This highlighted the essential role these advocates played in advancing women’s rights.
On August 31, 2023, Ambassador Smetánka also had a farewell meeting with Pakistan’s caretaker Foreign Minister, Jalil Abbas Jilani, reinforcing the strong bilateral ties between the two nations.
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Their discussions encompassed a wide range of issues, including trade, investment, education, and regional matters such as the situation in Afghanistan and the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
A Diplomatic Journey – From Jordan to Pakistan
Ambassador Smetánka’s diplomatic career had been marked by a series of significant assignments. From his initial role as an Ambassador in Jordan in 1996 to his service in China and South Korea, he steadily climbed the ranks of diplomacy.
His contributions extended to Brussels, where he coordinated Middle East and North Africa affairs during the EU Council Presidency.
Upon returning to Prague in 2009, he assumed the role of director of the Middle East and North Africa Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
In October 2011, Ambassador Smetánka took on his role as the Czech Ambassador to Indonesia, expanding his responsibilities to cover ASEAN, Brunei, East Timor, and Singapore. His term in Indonesia concluded in July 2015.
Then, on November 7, 2019, he embarked on his mission as the Czech Ambassador to Pakistan. His tenure continued until August 31, 2023, when he completed a fruitful four-year assignment in Pakistan.
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