Key Figure in Indo-Saudi Relations and Memorandum of Understanding on Yoga
Jeddah , Sep- 30, 2023 : Dr. Ausaf Sayeed, a distinguished diplomat with a 33-year-long career in the foreign service, has bid farewell to his role as Secretary for Consular, Passport, and Visa and Overseas Indian Affairs in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). Hailing from Hyderabad, Dr. Sayeed played a pivotal role in strengthening Indo-Saudi relations and facilitating the recent visit of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to New Delhi following the G-20 summit in the Indian capital.
On his final day in office, Dr. Sayeed shared his insights with ‘Telangana Today’ over the phone, highlighting his role in ushering a new era in Indo-Saudi relations. He expressed gratitude for the warm affection he received from the Indian Diaspora during his career.
Dr. Sayeed, an Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer of the 1989 batch, served in various capacities across Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Denmark, the United States of America, Seychelles, and Yemen. In the 1990s, he also served as the Regional Passport Officer in Hyderabad.
Known as a people’s diplomat, Dr. Sayeed earned respect and recognition during his tenures in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the USA. He was instrumental in facilitating the signing of a groundbreaking memorandum of understanding (MoU) on Yoga between India and Saudi Arabia, marking the first such agreement between an Islamic nation and India. Additionally, he played a significant role in categorizing Indian Haj pilgrims.
Dr. Ausaf Sayeed, a Hadhrami Arab, commonly known as Chaush, hails from a respected family in Hyderabad, adding a cultural richness to his diplomatic career.
Meanwhile, the Centre’s Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has appointed Muktesh Kumar Pardeshi as the new Secretary for Consular, Passport, and Visa and Overseas Indian Affairs (CPV & OIA) in the Ministry, succeeding Dr. Ausaf Sayeed. Pardeshi previously served as the Special Secretary of G-20 operations.
Ambassador Dr. Ausaf Sayeed: A Diplomatic Journey
Ambassador Dr. Ausaf Sayeed, born on September 18, 1963, is a distinguished Indian diplomat, celebrated author, and accomplished Toastmaster. He is a member of the esteemed Indian Foreign Service (IFS) of the 1989 Batch. Currently, he holds the prestigious position of Secretary for Consular, Passport, Visas, Overseas Emigration, and NRI & Overseas Indian Affairs, with responsibilities encompassing affairs of GCC and WANA countries, within India’s Ministry of External Affairs.
Throughout his illustrious career, Dr. Sayeed has undertaken various diplomatic roles, leaving an indelible mark on Indian diplomacy. Notable among his assignments are his stints as the Ambassador of India to Saudi Arabia, High Commissioner of India in Seychelles, Ambassador of India to Yemen, and Consul General of India in Chicago and Jeddah. His diplomatic journey has also seen him serving in Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Denmark. In these diverse roles, spanning nearly 33 years, Dr. Sayeed has adeptly represented India’s interests across political, economic, and cultural domains, fostering harmonious relationships with nations across the globe.
In addition to his diplomatic achievements, Dr. Ausaf Sayeed possesses an academic prowess. He holds a Master of Science and a Ph.D. in Geology, both earned from Osmania University in Hyderabad, India. Furthermore, he has an Advanced Diploma in Arabic from the American University in Cairo. His dedication to self-improvement is exemplified by his attainment of the Competent Toastmaster (CTM) designation. Dr. Sayeed’s academic achievements are further accentuated by his receipt of the Shri Y.G.K. Murthy Gold Medal from Osmania University in Hyderabad, a testament to his scholarly excellence.
As Ambassador Dr. Ausaf Sayeed embarks on a new chapter in his life following his retirement from the diplomatic service, his contributions to Indian diplomacy, culture, and literature will continue to be celebrated. His legacy serves as an inspiration for aspiring diplomats and scholars alike.
Pictures via ausafsayeed.com
