STORY
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office has announced the appointment of Mr. Ajay Sharma CMG as the new British High Commissioner to Malaysia, succeeding Ms. Ailsa Terry CMG. Mr. Sharma is expected to assume his new role in April 2025.
Extensive Diplomatic Career
Mr. Sharma brings a wealth of experience to his new position, having served in various high-profile diplomatic roles over his 30-year career. Notably, he was the UK’s Chargé d’Affaires to Iran from 2013 to 2015, British Ambassador to Qatar from 2015 to 2020, and Chargé d’Affaires to Turkey from 2022 to 2023. His previous assignments also include Deputy Ambassador to France and postings in Moscow and Ankara.
Recent Positions and Negotiation Roles
Prior to this appointment, Mr. Sharma held the position of Director in the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and served as Director of International Affairs in the National Security Secretariat of the Cabinet Office. He has been actively involved in significant international negotiations, including serving as the UK Representative for a Cyprus Settlement from 2021 to 2022 and as Deputy Negotiator for the Iran Nuclear Deal (Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action).
Educational Background and Language Proficiency
Born in London, Mr. Sharma is a graduate of Oxford University. He is fluent in French and Turkish and is currently learning Bahasa Melayu in preparation for his assignment in Malaysia.
Transition and Interim Arrangements
Mr. Sharma is set to arrive in Malaysia with his family in the coming weeks to commence his appointment. Until his arrival, Mr. David Wallace will continue to serve as the Acting High Commissioner.