Former foreign minister and leader of PML-N Sartaj Aziz passes away

On Tuesday, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) conveyed the solemn news of the passing of Mr. Sartaj Aziz, a distinguished figure within the party and a former foreign minister. The PML-N described him as a stalwart, a true icon, and a towering figure in their official announcement.

Sartaj Aziz, a renowned Pakistani economist and strategist, held several key positions in government throughout his career. Engaged in the Pakistan Movement during his student years, he pursued studies in economics at Punjab University and later in public administration at Harvard Kennedy School.

Commencing as a civil servant in 1952, Aziz contributed to various governmental roles until 1971, including a tenure as joint secretary in the planning commission. He then ventured into international organizations such as the Food and Agriculture Organization and the International Fund for Agricultural Development.

Returning to Pakistan in 1984, he served as a minister until 1988 under the Junejo administration and subsequently became a senator. Aziz held significant positions in Sharif administrations as Minister of Finance and Minister of Foreign Affairs, notably opposing nuclear tests citing economic concerns.

Transitioning to academia in 2004, he assumed the role of vice-chancellor at Beaconhouse National University, concurrently teaching economics. Aziz authored ‘Between Dreams and Realities,’ a notable publication in 2009. He rejoined the government in 2013 under Nawaz Sharif’s administration, providing counsel on foreign policy and serving as the National Security Advisor until 2015.