Islamabad-Moscow ties developing swiftly, trade volume surpasses $2bn mark: Russian diplomat
1. Level of Pak-Russia contacts elevated dramatically since last year, says Russian consul general
KARACHI: Russia’s Consul General in Karachi, Andrey V Fedorov, expressed satisfaction over the strengthening bilateral cooperation between Pakistan and Russia, highlighting that high-level engagements between the leadership of both nations have further reinforced these ties.
Speaking at the "People’s Unity Day" ceremony held on Friday night at the Consulate General of the Russian Federation, Fedorov noted that this day, celebrated annually on November 4, honors the resilience of the Russian people.
Fedorov shared that relations between Russia and Pakistan are steadily progressing, with the current trade volume exceeding $2 billion. He emphasized the equal partnership among Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) members, united in working toward a better future for the next generation.
During his address, Fedorov explained that "People’s Unity Day" marks the moment in 1612 when Russia, on the brink of collapse during the “Time of Troubles,” reclaimed its sovereignty. He recounted how shopkeeper Kuzma Minin and Duke Dmitry Pozharsky organized a volunteer militia that ultimately liberated Russia from "Polish occupiers," restoring the nation’s independence.
Reflecting on Russia’s diplomatic relations with Pakistan, Fedorov noted significant growth in bilateral cooperation in recent years. He highlighted the surge in high-level interactions, particularly since last year’s celebration of the 75th anniversary of Russia-Pakistan diplomatic ties. A notable example was the July 3 meeting at the SCO Heads of State summit in Astana, where Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
The event saw notable attendees, including Sindh Governor Kamran Khan Tessori, Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, senior members of the provincial cabinet, former Sindh Assembly Speaker Agha Siraj Durrani, MNA Dr. Farooq Sattar, PPP Sindh President Nisar Ahmed Khuhro, diplomats, business leaders, and media representatives. The celebration included a cake-cutting ceremony and traditional Russian dance performances by Russian artists, captivating the audience before a grand dinner.
