The Foreign Service Academy held the passing out Ceremony of the 36th Specialized Diplomatic Course marking the completion of the nine-month specialized training of twenty two probationary officers of the Foreign Service of Pakistan. The closing ceremony also included the passing out of a group of 37 diplomats from thirty five friendly countries who concluded their six-week long Junior Diplomatic Course which started on 21 November 2016. The Adviser to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs, Mr. Sartaj Aziz was the Chief Guest. Senior officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, members of the diplomatic Corps, eminent scholars, educationists as well as the faculty of the Academy attended the event. Adviser to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Mr. Sartaj Aziz, in his remarks highlighted the role of the Foreign Service of Pakistan. He underlined major responsibility of a diplomat and the diplomatic service; a calling that commanded deep commitment, unflinching loyalty and an earnest pursuit of excellence. Twenty-first century diplomacy necessitated creativity, connectivity and communication. The diplomats of the both courses are expected to uphold the legacy and deliver results. Director General, Foreign Service Academy Mr. Iftekhar Aziz, spoke about the training philosophy, methodology and innovations employed by the Academy. He highlighted the activities during the two courses and appreciated the zeal and interest of the participants of these courses. At the end, the Adviser to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs distributed diplomas & certificates among the participants, including top three position holders of the 35th Specialized Diplomatic Course Ms. Amna Chaudhry, Mr. Zulfiqar Ali Malik and Syeda Fatimee who were awarded Gold, Silver and Bronze medals respectively.