France Closure: France Marks National Day in Karachi as Consulate Prepares for New Diplomatic Chapter
French envoy reaffirms long-term partnership with Pakistan, saying trade, culture and business ties will continue despite the Karachi consulate’s closure.
French National Day celebration at the French Consulate in Karachi.
KARACHI: France Closure marked a significant moment during the French National Day celebrations at the Consulate General of France in Karachi, where Sindh Governor Syed Nehal Hashmi and Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah joined diplomats, business leaders and distinguished guests to commemorate the 237th anniversary of the Storming of the Bastille.
Speaking at the ceremony, French Consul General Alexis Chahtahtinsky reflected on the long-standing relationship between France and Pakistan. He noted that France was among the first countries to recognize Pakistan’s independence in 1947 and reaffirmed both nations’ shared commitment to promoting international peace and stability through diplomatic cooperation.
The event also highlighted the growing economic partnership between France and Pakistan. Chahtahtinsky pointed to the contributions of leading French companies operating in Karachi, including CMA CGM, Louis Dreyfus Company, Schneider Electric and L’Oréal. He said these investments continue to strengthen bilateral trade, industrial development and economic cooperation.
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During his address, the Consul General announced that the French government will close the Consulate General in Karachi after four years of his tenure because of budgetary considerations. He stressed, however, that France remains committed to Pakistan and will continue its engagement through new diplomatic and institutional arrangements.
France officially confirmed on July 15, 2026, that it will close its diplomatic mission in Karachi for budgetary reasons. Despite the closure of the physical consulate, the country will maintain its presence through a newly appointed Honorary Consul General, the Pakistan France Business Alliance (PFBA) and the Alliance Française de Karachi, which will continue promoting cultural, educational and business cooperation.
French officials emphasized that the transition reflects an administrative restructuring rather than a reduction in bilateral relations. They expressed confidence that the new framework will further strengthen commercial, cultural and people-to-people connections between France and Pakistan.
