Former Foreign Secretary and PCB Chairman Shaharyar Khan Passes Away at 89

Lahore, The Gulf Observer: Renowned diplomat and former chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Shaharyar Khan, breathed his last on Saturday in Lahore after battling a prolonged illness. He was 89 years old.

Born in 1934, Shaharyar Khan embarked on a distinguished career in the Foreign Service in 1957, serving the nation until his retirement as foreign secretary in 1994.

Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar conveyed heartfelt condolences over Khan’s demise, lauding his illustrious service to Pakistan both in diplomatic roles and as the head of the PCB. “He will be greatly missed,” Dar expressed, offering prayers for Khan’s soul to rest in peace and for solace to his bereaved family and friends.

The Foreign Office paid tribute to the former ambassador and high commissioner, recognizing his significant contributions in safeguarding Pakistan’s diplomatic interests. In an official statement, Foreign Secretary Muhammad Syrus Qazi mourned Khan’s passing, describing him as “one of Pakistan’s finest diplomats.” Qazi underscored Khan’s enduring legacy of accomplishments in advancing Pakistan’s interests globally. Shaharyar Khan had served as Ambassador to Jordan and France, as well as High Commissioner to London. Notably, from 1994 to 1996, he held the esteemed position of special representative to the UN Secretary-General, overseeing peacekeeping operations in Rwanda.

Apart from his diplomatic endeavors, Shaharyar Khan was a fervent cricket enthusiast. He served two terms as chairman of the PCB, from 2003 to 2006 and then from 2014 to 2017.

Federal Interior Minister and current PCB Chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, expressed profound sorrow at Khan’s demise, reminiscing about him as “a fine administrator” who dedicated himself tirelessly to the service of Pakistan Cricket. Naqvi highlighted Khan’s invaluable contributions to the growth and development of cricket in the nation.

Born in Bhopal, India, Shaharyar Khan was not only a distinguished diplomat but also an accomplished author, renowned for works such as “The Begums of Bhopal”, “The Shallow Graves of Rwanda”, “Cricket: A Bridge of Peace”, and “Bhopal Connections.”

The passing of Shaharyar Khan marks the end of an era in both diplomacy and cricket, leaving behind a legacy of service, dedication, and intellectual pursuit.