Naveed Ahmad Khan Photos by Ramzan Mughal
ISLAMABAD – A graceful farewell was hosted in honour of Her Excellency Mrs. Andrea Wicke, Ambassador of the Republic of Austria to Pakistan, marking the conclusion of her distinguished diplomatic tenure. The event, which also served as a reception for newly appointed envoys, was organized by Mr. Fazal Elahi, Editor-in-Chief of Diplomatic Focus Magazine, at the Islamabad Club.
In recent months, Pakistan’s diplomatic landscape has undergone a notable transition, with several foreign envoys completing their assignments or departing due to political changes back home. Among them is Ambassador Andrea Wicke, a widely respected figure whose term in Pakistan has been marked by excellence and cultural diplomacy.
The event was attended by a diverse gathering of ambassadors, diplomats, and business figures. Prominent among them were Senior Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader Mirza Ikhtiar Baig (MNA) ,Ambassador Atadjan Movlamov, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and Turkmenistan’s envoy to Pakistan; Ambassador Hamid Asghar Khan, Additional Foreign Secretary (Africa); and Mian Mobeen Akhtar, JHL International Ambassador to the European Union.
In her farewell address, Mrs. Wicke shared highlights from her diplomatic journey, which began after completing her studies at Vienna University and Vienna Music University. She joined the Austrian Foreign Service and served in various capacities across cities including Zagreb, Prague, Sofia, Vilnius, and Kuala Lumpur, as well as in key roles within the Austrian Ministry for Europe, Integration and Foreign Affairs.
Adding a personal touch, she revealed her lesser-known talents as an actor, director, singer, and musician. She credited her husband, Mr. Venzislav Wicke, for his constant support and inspiration throughout her career.
Welcoming guests, Mr. Fazal Elahi remarked, “This evening, we bid farewell to a distinguished envoy, Her Excellency Mrs. Andrea Wicke, as she concludes her illustrious diplomatic journey and enters the well-earned chapter of retirement.” He acknowledged her contributions to strengthening Austria–Pakistan ties in sectors ranging from economy to culture and presented her with the Award of Excellence 2025 as a token of appreciation for her remarkable service.
Mr. Elahi also warmly greeted the newly arrived ambassadors and high commissioners, expressing hope for continued friendship and cooperation. “Pakistan offers not just a strategic platform for diplomacy, but also rich history, warm hospitality, and enduring partnerships,” he stated, assuring them of full media cooperation from Diplomatic Focus Magazine.
A notable highlight of the evening was a prize draw organized by Flydubai, during which the Jordanian Ambassador to Pakistan is Dr. Maen Khreasat and Ambassador of Myanmar to Pakistan, Wunna Han were the lucky winners of complimentary tickets to Dubai, much to the delight of the attendees. The evening concluded with
The evening concluded with a lavish dinner, followed by the presentation of special gifts to the ambassadors, a gesture symbolizing friendship, continuity, and mutual respect among nations.
