The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has sought directions from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif over the future politically appointed diplomats in Pakistani missions abroad.

According to rules, political appointees leave their posts when a new government is sworn in.

However, multiple ambassadors continue to serve at their posts despite over a month having passed since the Shehbaz government took office.

Pakistan’s ambassador to the US Masood Khan’s two-year contract has already expired, according to sources.

Munir Akram, Pakistan’s permanent representative in the United Nations is also considered a political appointment.

Additionally, ambassadors in many countries Turkey, Sri Lanka and Jordan were also appointed on political basis and were not career diplomats.