Date of publication: May 21, 2018

Mirza Salman Babar Baig

Deputy Chief of Mission: Embassy of Pakistan

Date of birth: Jan. 3, 1977

Hometown: Lahore, Pakistan

Number of years in Japan (cumulative): 2 (as of April 2018)

Q1: What was your first encounter with Japan?

My first encounter with Japan was through friends during German language training in Berlin back in 2005. The humility, composure and etiquette of the Japanese people always evoked my respect for the Japanese culture. Since my arrival here, I’m happy to note that Japan far exceeded my expectations as a great country. My feelings are equally shared by my wife and kids, who consider Japan a home away from home.

Q2: Please state your motto in life and why you have chosen it.

I am firmly of the opinion that people around the world share similar hopes and aspirations. We are part of a large global community. It is therefore imperative for us to help each other to create a better tomorrow for our coming generations. Let’s leave this world a better place for our children.

Q3 : Over your career, what achievement are you the proudest of?

Frankly, it is hard to pinpoint a single major achievement. However, I worked as part of the Kyoto Protocol on climate change for some time and was really happy with the progress there. I think the Earth is our shared heritage and we must make joint efforts to preserve and improve its environment.

Q4 : What are your goals during your time in Japan, your current position or in life?

I do hope to contribute in my humble capacity to the efforts to bring Japanese and Pakistanis closer to each other. This is a shared goal of our team here and we are really thankful to our Japanese friends for their cooperation and understanding in realizing it.

Q5 : What wisdom, advice or tips can you give to people living and working in Japan?

To the expatriates working in Japan, I would say that it is a very vibrant and dynamic country with so much to offer expatriates. Japanese friendliness to foreigners makes living here a great experience. Do take time out of your busy schedules and explore Japan, I am sure that it will grow on you. In short, make the best use of your time here.

Last updated: May 21, 2018