Gopal Baglay Succeeds Vikas Swarup as MEA Spokesperson

Diplomat Gopal Baglay, a 1992 batch IFS officer, will Succeed Vikas Swarup as Spokesperson in the External Affairs Ministry. Mr Swarup will move on to be India’s new High Commissioner to Canada.

Gopal Baglay (MEA Twitter)

Mr Baglay was earlier heading the PAI (Pakistan-Afghanistan-Iran) division in the ministry and in his place, Mr Deepak Mittal will assume the new charge of the PAI division.

In a twitter message, baglay said: “Delighted to take over as Official Spokesperson. Hope to have your cooperation in continuing the high traditions set by my predecessors.”

Mr Baglay currently holds the Joint Secretary rank in the External Publicity (XP) division of Ministry of External Affairs.

Mr Swarup hoped that his successor would take the MEA communications to the next level. “I wish my successor Gopal Baglay all the best for the new assignment. He will take MEA communications to the next level, online & offline! Today I bid farewell as the Official Spokesperson, an extraordinary privilege and honour! You can follow me in my new role on @VikasSwarup.”

Baglay was ealier Director of External Publicity, Director PAI and Indian Deputy High Commissioner to Pakistan.