Islamabad, Pakistan: A press release issued by Inter Service Public Relations (ISPR) of Pakistan Armed Forces stated that Field Marshal Syed Asim MunirChief of Army Staff (COAS), met Saima Saleem, who is part of Pakistan’s representative mission to the United Nations.
Saima is the first visually impaired Pakistani female to be part of Pakistan’s diplomatic service, and recently she played an impressive role in the UN, defeating her Indian counterparts on the floor of the UN. Her forceful, logical, and authentic defending of Pakistan’s viewpoint over Indian aggression and Indian involvement in cross-border terrorism was lauded by global diplomats and foreign media.
Field Marshal COAS Asim Munir, who is visiting the United States today, held a warm and inspiring meeting with Saima Saleem, who, despite being visually impaired, has made a remarkable mark in international diplomacy through her resolve and dedication. He lauded her exceptional talent, unwavering dedication, and outstanding contributions to promoting Pakistan’s interests at the UN.
The COAS expressed admiration for Saima Saleem’s resilience and determination, which serve as a shining example for the nation, particularly for individuals with disabilities. He reaffirmed the Pakistan Army’s commitment to supporting and empowering individuals with disabilities, enabling them to contribute to national development. She briefed the COAS on her work at the UN, highlighting key issues and challenges facing Pakistan. The COAS appreciated her efforts in promoting Pakistan’s stance on regional and global issues, including the threat of state-sponsored terrorism by India, which is the root cause of destabilisation in the region. The meeting is a testament to the recognition of the unmatched potential of Pakistan’s exceptional talent and dedication, regardless of physical ability. She also shared her literary work with the COAS.
It may be mentioned that Saima Saima completed her bachelor’s degree and MPhil degree in English literature from Kinnaird College for Women University, where she completed both her degrees with first division and won gold medals for her excellent performance. She was also among the top 10 students among the 300 sighted students. In 2007, she passed her Central Superior Services (CSS) exam, in which she was able to secure a 6th position overall and the first position among women.
In her childhood, Saima Saleem was diagnosed with RP (retinitis pigmentosa), an incurable eye issue, and lost her vision completely when she was 13 years of age. Saima started her career as a lecturer at her home university, Kinnaird College for Women, where she stayed from 2007 to 2008. When Saima applied for giving CSS exams, she requested the Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC) to conduct a computer-based exam for her. However, the FPSC refused to conduct a computer exam because they were always conducted on paper. Saima pursued her case by quoting the ordinance passed in 2005 and won her moral case when the then President of Pakistan, Asif Ali Zardari, accepted her application. Since then government is facilitating candidates with visual impairment and allowing them to take exams on a computer.
After passing the exam, Saima had to face another hurdle. The FPSC did not allow blind candidates to apply for the Foreign Service, while Saima always wanted to be a diplomat, and she persuaded the panel to allow her to take up the groups of her choice. She took a position again and said she was not satisfied group (PAS) given by the government because she had always dreamed of being in the Foreign Service. The interview panel forwarded Saima’s recommendation to the Prime Minister, and her case was approved by him as an exception.
Saima has received many awards during her studies. She got the Quaid-e-Azam gold medal for her best academic performance and got first position in the Punjab Public Service Commission exam.
One can understand that this gesture of COAS Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir sent a message to everyone in the country that whoever fights for the country, he or she is an honour for the nation. It is pertinent to mention that the Pakistan Army has been conducting Hilal Talks in which the Pakistan Army is reaching out to universities, colleges, and even schools to interact with youth, sending them a message that these youth are the future of the country.
