ISLAMABAD: The Institute of Regional Studies (IRS) on Thursday hosted a special meet and greet session in honor of media colleagues in order to celebrate the appointment of the former Ambassador Johar Saleem as president of the institution.
Johar Saleem, former Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Special Secretary, Additional Secretary of Foreign Affairs, and Director General Foreign Academy, has been recently appointed as President of the Institute of Regional Studies. To commemorate this significant appointment, IRS hosted a special meet and greet session in honor of media colleagues, acknowledging their role in fostering informed discourse and public engagement.
Founded in 1982, IRS stands as one of Pakistan’s oldest and most esteemed think tanks. With a rich legacy of scholarship and analysis, the institute has been at the forefront of conducting research on critical geopolitical issues, particularly focusing on South Asia, West Asia, and Central Asia. Pakistan’s foreign policy serves as a cornerstone of IRS’s research endeavors.
The IRS currently operates nine distinct programs, each addressing key geopolitical themes and challenges. From examining bilateral relations with neighboring countries like Iran, India, and Afghanistan, to delving into broader regional issues such as Central Asia and conflicts, economic security, climate resilience, and cyber security.
As Ambassador Johar Saleem assumes leadership at IRS, the institute reaffirms its commitment to fostering informed dialogue, shaping policy discourse, and contributing to the advancement of regional understanding and cooperation.
He also served as Pakistan’s ambassador to Germany, Italy, Bosnia & Herzegovina, and Bahrain, as well as Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), and the World Food Program (WFP).
