Akbar Mirza Khaleeli

Akbar Mirza Khaleeli (b 1936), is a retired Indian diplomat who served as the Indian ambassador to Iran, Italy and High Commissioner to Australia with concurrent accreditation to Vanuatu and Solomon Islands.

Early life and education
Akbar Khaleeli was born in 1936 in Bengaluru (Bangalore). He was educated at Bishop Cotton Boys' School, Bengaluru and Doveton Corrie Boys’ High School, Chennai before completing BA (Honours) in Economics from Loyola College, Chennai and Bachelor of Law from Madras Law College, Chennai.

He married his maternal first cousin Shakereh Khaleeli in 1965 with whom he has four daughters including Rehane Yavar Dhala.

Diplomatic career
Akbar Khaleeli entered the Indian foreign service in 1959. He served as the Indian ambassador to Iran from 1980-84, Italy from 1986-90 and High Commissioner to Australia from 1991-95. He also served as a permanent representative of India to the Food and Agricultural Organisation, Rome.

During his career in the Ministry of External Affairs from 1959 to 1995, he held multiple posts including Chief of Protocol in 1976, Joint Secretary Haj, Director West Asia and North Africa and charges d'affairs Jordan.