France announces permanent closure of Consulate General in Karachi

France has announced the permanent closure of its Consulate General in Karachi as part of budgetary measures and a broader policy to streamline its diplomatic presence worldwide.

Speaking at the Bastille Day reception in Karachi, French Consul General Alexis Chahtahtinsky said France remains committed to strengthening its longstanding relationship with Pakistan despite the closure.

"We shall continue deepening our relationship with Pakistan, primarily through our Embassy in Islamabad," he said.

The Consul General explained that the decision was driven by budgetary considerations and is part of France's global strategy to maintain a leaner and more efficient diplomatic network across several countries.

He emphasised that the Pakistan-France Business Alliance and Alliance Française Karachi will continue to play a vital role in promoting the French language, culture, education, and people-to-people exchanges in Karachi.

Chahtahtinsky described Alliance Française Karachi as an integral part of the city's vibrant cultural landscape and expressed confidence that it will continue to strengthen cultural ties between France and Pakistan in the years ahead.

The announcement marks the end of France's consular presence in Karachi, while bilateral relations and consular affairs will continue to be managed through the Embassy of France in Islamabad.

Reporter: Zubair Rashid