France permanently closes consulate in Karachi

On Tuesday, the Consulate General of France in Karachi announced its permanent closure after a half-century of service. This marked the end of an era for the city and its relationship with France. The outgoing French Ambassador to Pakistan, Nicolas Galey, along with Consul General Alexis Chahtahtinsky, were honored at a farewell event organized by the Quaid-i-Azam House Museum and the Karachi Council of Foreign Relations.

Galey expressed his sadness at leaving Pakistan after spending nearly five years there, while acknowledging the city's vitality and transformation over the years. He praised Consul General Chahtahtinsky's contributions to the city and the country, and thanked Pakistan for its efforts in achieving a ceasefire in the Gulf region. Chahtahtinsky, in turn, thanked Galey for his friendship and recalled his own journey to Pakistan in 1983, which sparked his lifelong love for the country.

He also highlighted France's significant role in supporting Pakistan's military and economic development, including the provision of submarines, fighter jets, and tanks. As the consulate closes, the Alliance Francaise will continue to serve as a cultural hub, and the Pakistan France Business Alliance will continue its work.