New Delhi: Vikram Misri, a diplomat from the 1989 Indian Foreign Service batch, has been appointed as India’s new Foreign Secretary, effective 15 July. He will succeed Vinay Kwatra, as announced on 28 June.

Born in Srinagar in 1964, Misri completed his early education in Gwalior and holds a degree in history from Hindu College, Delhi University, and an MBA from XLRI. Over his extensive career, he has held key positions in various Indian missions, including postings in Brussels, Tunis, and as Ambassador to Spain and Myanmar.

Most notably, Misri served as India’s Ambassador to China from 2019 to 2021, earning a reputation as a China expert. He played a crucial role during the tensions following the 2020 standoff in eastern Ladakh and the Galwan Valley clash.

Before his current appointment, Misri was the Deputy National Security Advisor, where he contributed significantly to India’s foreign policy, particularly regarding China. His experience also includes serving as private secretary to three Prime Ministers: Inder Kumar Gujral, Manmohan Singh, and Narendra Modi.

With his vast experience and expertise, Misri is expected to navigate India through various foreign policy challenges, particularly in its relations with China.

In related developments, Jawed Ashraf, currently India’s Ambassador to France, is anticipated to be appointed as the new Deputy National Security Advisor. Additionally, appointments are awaited for India’s envoy to the US and the Permanent Representative to the United Nations, following recent retirements. /BI