Kamalesh Sharma

Kamalesh Sharma is a distinguished Indian diplomat who has served in various prominent positions, including as the Secretary-General of the Commonwealth. Born in India, Sharma has had a long and illustrious career, with postings in London, Moscow, and Nairobi. He has worked closely with numerous international organizations, such as the United Nations, the European Union, and the African Union. Sharma's diplomatic career has been marked by his involvement in key global events, including the G20 summit and the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting.

● Early Life and Education

Kamalesh Sharma was born in India and pursued his higher education at St. Stephen's College, Delhi, and later at King's College, Cambridge. He also attended the Indian Institute of Public Administration and the National Defence College. Sharma's educational background has been influenced by renowned institutions, including the University of Oxford, the University of Cambridge, and the Indian Institute of Technology. His early life and education have been shaped by interactions with notable figures, such as Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, and Nelson Mandela.

● Career

Sharma's career has spanned multiple continents, with postings in Europe, Africa, and Asia. He has served as the High Commissioner of India to the United Kingdom, the Ambassador of India to Israel, and the Ambassador of India to Germany. Sharma has worked closely with international leaders, including Tony Blair, Vladimir Putin, and Jacques Chirac. His career has been marked by significant events, such as the Cold War, the Fall of the Berlin Wall, and the Indian economic liberalisation.

● Secretary-General of

the Commonwealth As the Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, Sharma has played a crucial role in promoting cooperation among the Commonwealth of Nations. He has worked to strengthen ties between member states, including Australia, Canada, South Africa, and the United Kingdom. Sharma has been involved in key Commonwealth events, such as the Commonwealth Games and the Commonwealth Youth Exchange Council. His tenure has been marked by interactions with notable figures, including Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Charles, and Malcolm Fraser.

● Diplomatic Career

Sharma's diplomatic career has been characterized by his involvement in key international organizations, including the United Nations Security Council, the G8, and the Non-Aligned Movement. He has worked closely with diplomats from various countries, including United States Ambassador to the United Nations, Chinese Ambassador to the United States, and Russian Ambassador to the United Kingdom. Sharma's diplomatic career has been shaped by significant global events, including the September 11 attacks, the War in Afghanistan, and the Arab Spring.

● Awards and Honours

Kamalesh Sharma has received numerous awards and honours for his contributions to diplomacy and international relations. He has been awarded the Padma Bhushan by the Government of India and has received honorary degrees from universities such as the University of Edinburgh and the University of Warwick. Sharma has also been recognized by international organizations, including the Commonwealth Secretariat and the United Nations Foundation. His awards and honours reflect his commitment to promoting global cooperation and understanding, as exemplified by his work with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and the Nelson Mandela Foundation.