Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar bids farewell to UN Resident Coordinator Mohamed Yahya

Senator Dar specifically highlighted the effective coordination and leadership demonstrated by the UN Country Team under Mr. Yahya’s guidance, noting that his efforts were instrumental in aligning various international development initiatives with the national priorities of Pakistan.

The discussion served as a platform to reflect on the collaborative projects undertaken during this period, which spanned various sectors including humanitarian assistance, sustainable development, and social welfare programs. The Deputy Prime Minister expressed his appreciation for the professional dedication shown by the outgoing coordinator in navigating complex diplomatic and operational challenges while stationed in the country.

Following the review of his tenure, Senator Dar extended his formal congratulations to Mr. Yahya regarding his recent appointment to a senior leadership position within the global United Nations hierarchy.

Mr. Yahya has been selected to serve as the Assistant Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Deputy Emergency Relief Coordinator at the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA). This transition marks a significant elevation in his career, placing him at the forefront of international humanitarian response efforts.

The appointment is viewed as a testament to his performance in Pakistan, where he managed diverse portfolios involving international aid and inter-agency cooperation.

In response to the warm sentiments expressed by the Deputy Prime Minister, Mohamed Yahya conveyed his sincere gratitude to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the broader government apparatus for the consistent support and cooperation he received during his time in Pakistan.

He emphasized that the collaborative environment provided by the Pakistani authorities was vital to the success of the various UN-led missions and programs implemented across the country. Looking toward his future responsibilities, Mr. Yahya expressed a strong desire to maintain a constructive and close working relationship with Pakistan in his new capacity at OCHA.

He noted that his experience in the region has provided him with valuable insights that will inform his approach to global humanitarian coordination. The meeting concluded with both parties reaffirming their commitment to the enduring partnership between Pakistan and the United Nations, underscoring the importance of continued dialogue and cooperation in addressing regional and global challenges.

The departure of Mr. Yahya marks the end of a notable chapter in the diplomatic relationship between the UN and Pakistan, with both sides signaling a readiness to build upon the foundations established during his time as the Resident Coordinator.

The Foreign Office confirmed that the meeting was conducted in a cordial atmosphere, reflecting the mutual respect and shared objectives that define the ongoing engagement between the state and the international body.

As Mr. Yahya prepares to assume his new duties in the humanitarian sector, the government of Pakistan has signaled its intent to continue facilitating the vital work of the UN Country Team, ensuring that the momentum generated by recent collaborative efforts remains steady.

This transition is expected to be followed by the appointment of a successor who will continue to oversee the UN’s extensive development and humanitarian footprint within the country, maintaining the established channels of communication and strategic partnership that have been cultivated over the years.