Islamabad (Adnan Hameed): The Embassy of the Russian Federation in Pakistan hosted a grand diplomatic reception in Islamabad to mark Russia’s 35th National Day. The event was attended by President Asif Ali Zardari, who served as the chief guest, alongside Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Tariq Fatemi, Russian Ambassador Albert Khorev, and members of the diplomatic corps.
President Asif Ali Zardari emphasized the untapped opportunities in Pakistan-Russia relations, stressing the need to enhance cooperation in trade, investment, technology, and cultural exchanges. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties, noting that relations between both nations are built on mutual respect, cooperation, and shared interests.
The celebration commenced with solemn renditions of the national anthems of Russia and Pakistan, symbolizing their deepening friendship. The event also highlighted high-level engagements, including a recent meeting between Special Assistant Tariq Fatemi and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Moscow, where both sides pledged continued regional collaboration.
Ambassador Albert Khorev praised the positive trajectory of Pakistan-Russia ties and welcomed the growing interest of Pakistanis in Russian language and culture. He reaffirmed Russia’s support for Pakistan on global platforms, emphasizing cooperation in education, diplomacy, and mutual development.
The evening concluded with a captivating musical performance by the Russian guitarist group ‘Bogema’, adding a cultural flourish to the National Day celebrations, marking yet another strengthened moment in diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Russia.