Pakistan, Aug. 30 -- France has permanently closed its consulate in Karachi, ending its long-standing consular presence in the city. The French Consulate formally announced the closure and bid farewell to the people of Karachi. The French and European Union flags have also been removed from the consulate building.

The consulate expressed gratitude to its friends and partners in Karachi for their support and cooperation over the years. In its farewell message, it simply said, "Goodbye Karachi." The closure follows a decision by the French government to reduce expenses due to budget constraints.

French Consul General Alexis announced the decision last month during an event marking France's National Day. He said the French government had d...