New Delhi: The Indian diplomatic community and officials expressed deep sorrow over the sudden demise of Ambassador Virander Paul, who was serving as India’s envoy to Turkiye. Leading the tributes, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar lauded Ambassador Paul’s unwavering dedication and notable contributions to the Indian Foreign Service.
Deeply grieved at the passing away of Virander Paul, our Ambassador in Türkiye.
A great loss to the Indian Foreign Service. Have worked closely with him in his many postings. Always admired his commitment and service and value his many contributions.
Deepest condolences to…
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) June 21, 2024
Official Spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs, Randhir Jaiswal, also conveyed condolences, emphasising Ambassador Paul’s exceptional human qualities and impactful professional contributions.
“We are deeply saddened at the untimely demise of Ambassador Virander Paul, India’s envoy to Turkiye. A dedicated officer, he will always be remembered for his exceptional human qualities and impactful professional contribution. Our heartfelt condolences to his family. Team @MEAIndia stands with them in this difficult hour,” stated Jaiswal.
We are deeply saddened at the untimely demise of Ambassador Virander Paul, India’s envoy to Türkiye.
A dedicated officer, he will always be remembered for his exceptional human qualities and impactful professional contribution.
Our heartfelt condolences to his family. Team…
— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) June 21, 2024
Ambassador Firat Sunel of Turkiye to India added his condolences, remembering Ambassador Paul as “an excellent person and a distinguished diplomat.”
Deeply saddened to learn of the passing of my dear friend, HE Dr. Virander Paul, Ambassador of 🇮🇳 to 🇹🇷.
He was an excellent person and a distinguished diplomat.
My heartfelt condolences to his bereaved family and mourning friends in the MEA. Om Shanti.@MEAIndia@DrSJaishankar https://t.co/DzWtLS9z4s— Fırat Sunel फिरात सुनेल فرات صونال (@firatsunel) June 21, 2024
Paul joined the Indian Foreign Service in 1991. He earlier served as Ambassador/Deputy Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations in Geneva (2016-2019), Deputy High Commissioner of India in London (2013-2016), Minister (Press) at the Indian Embassy in Washington DC (2010-2013), Director in the Prime Minister’s Office during 2007-2010, and Counsellor Political at the Indian Embassy in Moscow from 2003-2007.
He also held diplomatic positions in the Indian Missions in Almaty, Vladivostok, Rome and St. Petersburg. During his other previous stints at the Ministry of External Affairs Headquarters, he served in Europe East and Americas Divisions. He held a medical degree from All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi.
