Saran is new foreign secy

The government appointed Shyam Saran, India's ambassador to Nepal, as the new foreign secretary. He will take over on August 1, after current incumbent Shashank retires on July 31.

The government on Thursday appointed Shyam Saran, India's ambassador to Nepal, as the new foreign secretary. He will take over on August 1, after current incumbent Shashank retires on July 31.

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The 1970 batch officer has been chosen for his impeccable and non-controversial record as a diplomat. He will have a term of more than two years.

Saran was backed strongly by external affairs minister K. Natwar Singh, who had virtually interviewed him shortly after assuming office.

Saran was the first Indian envoy to be called for consultations and Singh is said to have been impressed by his "professionalism", sources say.

What also went in Saran's favour was that he was backed by Shashank too.

Saran will take charge of the Foreign Office at a time when dialogue with Pakistan is at a crucial stage. He has his task cut out as he will be expected to intensify relations with the US and China and forge closer ties with member nations of the Saarc, EU and Asean.

In what may also be a first in the Foreign Office, Saran will supercede officers who lobbied hard for the post themselves.

Saran, who is fluent in Chinese, was envoy to Indonesia, Mauritius and Burma. He also served in the Indian missions in Tokyo, Beijing and Vienna and was posted at the Pakistan desk from 1977-79.

The envoy also enjoyed a stint at the PMO during the P.V. Narasimha Rao government.

"He is a team player, an efficient officer capable of handling difficult situations," remarked an official who has served under him.