A Gujarat-origin diplomat has been appointed as deputy head in the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office in the UK.

Shakil Mullan, born in Britain’s Birmingham with roots in Gujarat’s Bilimora has been serving the UK government for the last 17 years.

Mullan visited his home and farmhouse in Gandevi last year. From 2016 to 2020, he worked as a senior officer in the visa department of the British Embassy in India.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, he helped the British Asian community to get assistance from India.

After India, he worked in Beijing and later in the Anti-Corruption Department of the Foreign Ministry in London. 

Seeing his excellent work, the UK government appointed him as Deputy Head of the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office to enhance bilateral relations with India and boost trade between the two nations. 

Honoured by World Book of Records 

Recently, Mullan has been awarded a “Certificate of Excellence” by the World Book of Records for his efforts in promoting immigration services.

This prestigious award ceremony was held at the British Parliament, attended by renowned personalities such as Sanatan Dharma Bhushan Shri Raj Rajeshwar Guruji, British MP Joy Morris, five-time MP and Senior Labour Party Leader Virendra Sharma, and the President of World Book of Records, Santosh Shukla.

Despite growing up in Britain, he has remained connected to his roots. He has an admirable command of Gujarati and Hindi. He believes that language is a powerful tool, especially for connecting with people on a deep level. According to him, his proficiency in Gujarati and Hindi has strengthened his connection to his Indian origins and has strengthened his bond with the entire Indian community.

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