- Pakistan, Russia Vow to Deepen Ties as President Zardari Highlights ‘Enormous Potential’ in Bilateral Relations
Islamabad – President Asif Ali Zardari emphasized the “enormous potential” for expanding Pakistan-Russia cooperation in trade, investment, technology, and people-to-people exchanges during a ceremony marking the 35th National Day of the Russian Federation in Islamabad on Tuesday.
Speaking at the event, President Zardari reaffirmed Pakistan’s solidarity with Russia, stating, “On this significant occasion, Pakistan joins Russia in celebrating this National Day, reflecting our solidarity and friendship.” He noted the steady improvement in bilateral relations, which are “based on mutual respect, cooperation, and shared interests in various fields.”
The ceremony began with the national anthems of both countries, attended by dignitaries, diplomats, and officials. President Zardari extended his congratulations to Russian President Vladimir Putin, Ambassador Albert Khorev, and the Russian people, acknowledging Moscow’s role as “an important global power and a key player in promoting peace and stability in the Eurasian region.”
Strengthening Diplomatic and Economic Ties
President Zardari highlighted recent high-level engagements between Islamabad and Moscow, including a “very promising” meeting earlier this month between Prime Minister’s Special Assistant Tariq Fatemi and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, where both sides emphasized regional peace and stability.
“Pakistan and Russia continue to cooperate closely on regional and international platforms,” he said, expressing confidence that bilateral relations would grow stronger. “Let us take hold of the opportunities that lie ahead and work together for a brighter and more prosperous future.”
Russian Ambassador Praises Bilateral Progress
In his welcome address, Russian Ambassador Albert Khorev hailed Russia as a “sovereign, powerful, and resilient nation” backed by its people’s unwavering support. Quoting President Putin, he emphasized Russia’s historical role as a unifying force in the region “from the Baltics to the Caucasus.”
Ambassador Khorev noted the “satisfactory pace” of Pak-Russia cooperation across multiple sectors and praised Pakistan’s growing interest in Russian language and culture. “The Russian Mission is actively supporting the establishment and expansion of language learning institutions across Pakistan,” he said.
Reaffirming Moscow’s support for Islamabad on international platforms, the ambassador expressed eagerness to enhance collaboration in education, diplomacy, and mutual development.
Cultural Exchange and Future Prospects
The event concluded with a vibrant performance by a Russian folk artist, symbolizing the cultural connection between the two nations.
With high-level engagements and mutual commitments to expanding ties, both Pakistan and Russia appear poised to unlock new avenues of cooperation in the coming years.
BY: The Times Union
