Natalie Baker Nominated as New U.S. Ambassador to Pakistan

U.S. President Donald Trump has named Natalie Baker as the next U.S. Ambassador to Pakistan, ending a nearly two-year gap for a permanent envoy in Islamabad.

Appointment Process

Ms. Baker is currently the charge d'affaires at the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad, a role she took on in January 2025 after former ambassador Donald Armin Blome left. The White House has sent her nomination to the U.S. Senate for review by its foreign relations committee. If the committee approves the pick, the full Senate will hold a vote on her confirmation.

Experience

Before taking her current role, Ms. Baker arrived in Islamabad as the Deputy Chief of Mission in August 2024. Her past diplomatic postings include serving as Deputy Chief of Mission in Doha from August 2021 to July 2024, and holding roles in Libya, Dubai, and Kuwait. She also directed the Office of North African Affairs in the State Department's Near Eastern Affairs Bureau.

Context

Ambassadorial nominations require Senate confirmation under the U.S. political system, which is a standard part of filling key diplomatic posts abroad. A charge d'affaires steps in to lead a diplomatic mission temporarily when a permanent ambassador is not in office.