Policy Expert Mosharraf Zaidi Takes Helm as PM Shehbaz’s Foreign Media Spokesperson
Summary:
Journalist and policy expert Mosharraf Zaidi has been appointed Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s official spokesperson for foreign media. This move signifies a strategic enhancement in Pakistan’s international communication efforts, bringing Zaidi’s extensive experience in policy and media to the forefront.
Mosharraf Zaidi, a prominent journalist and policy expert, has recently been appointed as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s spokesperson for foreign media. This significant development, which emerged on Sunday, underscores the government’s intent to strengthen its international communication strategy.
The appointment was officially confirmed via a notification shared by Information Minister Attaullah Tarar on X. The notification clarifies that this appointment supersedes previous orders dated June 4 and Cabinet Division’s Circular No. 3-2/2024-Min-I dated June 10.
The directive explicitly stated, “The prime minister is pleased to appoint Mr Mosharraf Ali Zaidi as Prime Minister’s Spokesperson for Foreign Media, with immediate effect and until further orders.” It also requested the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and Cabinet Division to facilitate further necessary actions.
Information Minister Attaullah Tarar warmly welcomed Mosharraf Zaidi to the team. In his post, Tarar remarked, “Welcome on board, brother. A great addition to our team. It’s been great working with you these past few months, looking forward to continue this teamwork.” This indicates a pre-existing working relationship within the government and a seamless transition.
Mosharraf Zaidi’s Extensive Background
Mosharraf Zaidi brings a wealth of experience and academic credentials to his new role. He previously served as the PM’s coordinator on government performance and innovation, demonstrating his familiarity with governmental operations. His academic journey includes a BSc (Honours) in Economics from Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS) and a Master of Public Administration in Policy Analysis and Non-Profit Management from Baruch College in New York.
His professional career highlights Mosharraf Zaidi’s diverse expertise, spanning over a decade in policy and communications. From 2011 to 2013, he worked as a policy adviser at the foreign ministry, gaining crucial insights into international relations. Following this, he was the campaign director and CEO at Alif Ailaan from 2013 to 2018, focusing on education advocacy.
In 2018, Mosharraf Zaidi founded Tabadlab, an Islamabad-based policy think tank, where he served as CEO until June this year. He subsequently transitioned to a senior fellow role until August. His deep understanding of policy and communication positions him well for articulating Pakistan’s stance on global issues. SindhNews.com will cover the full briefing.
This appointment of Mosharraf Zaidi is anticipated to significantly enhance Pakistan’s engagement with international media. It aims to provide a clear and authoritative voice on crucial foreign policy matters, leveraging his analytical prowess and extensive professional network.
Conclusion
Mosharraf Zaidi’s new designation as the Prime Minister’s spokesperson for foreign media marks a strategic move by the government to effectively communicate its diplomatic agenda and national interests globally. His proven track record in policy analysis and media engagement is poised to strengthen Pakistan’s voice on the international stage, fostering clearer understanding and stronger diplomatic ties.