ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran Khan has reportedly appointed Lt Gen Bilal Akbar (retired) as Pakistan’s new ambassador to Saudi Arabia, replacing a career diplomat Raja Ali Ejaz. The developments come ahead of the important visit by Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al-Saud to Pakistan this month, during which he would hold talks with Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on issues of mutual interest and regional situations, besides meeting with Prime Minister Imran Khan, President Dr Arif Alvi and Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa.

Lt Gen Bilal Akbar (retired) served as chairman Pakistan Ordnance Factory, Wah Cantt, prior to his retirement in December 2020.

He also served as Commander X Corps Rawalpindi, Chief of General Staff (CGS) GHQ, Director General Pakistan Rangers (DG PR) Sindh, and GOC 11 Infantry Division, Lahore.

He would replace a career diplomat Raja Ali Ejaz.

Ejaz assumed responsibilities as Ambassador of Pakistan in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on 21st January, 2019.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2021