Russia marks 78 years of diplomatic ties with Pakistan

The Russian Federation has marked 78 years of diplomatic relations with Pakistan, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening ties based on mutual interests, 24NewsHD TV channel reported on Sunday. 

In a statement issued on the occasion, the Russian Embassy said that expanding cooperation with Pakistan remains a key priority of Moscow’s foreign policy in South Asia.

According to the statement, diplomatic relations between the two countries were formally established on 1 May. 

The spokesperson noted that during the early years of Pakistan’s independence, the Soviet Union provided significant economic assistance, including the supply of thousands of tonnes of food grain to support the newly formed state.

The statement highlighted that in the 1970s, with Moscow’s technical expertise and cooperation, Pakistan began work on several major development projects. 

These included the establishment of the country’s largest steel mill in Karachi, as well as thermal power plants in Muzaffargarh, Multan-II and Guddu. 

A radio station near Islamabad was also developed with Soviet support during the same period.

It further noted that the Soviet Union played an important role in the establishment of the Oil and Gas Development Company and contributed to the development of Pakistan’s agricultural sector. 

The embassy added that dialogue between Moscow and Islamabad continues to grow actively, with bilateral cooperation based on mutual respect and an understanding of each other’s interests.

Regular meetings of the Russia-Pakistan intergovernmental commission on trade, economic, scientific and technical cooperation have been taking place, reflecting the strengthening relationship. 

In 2023, bilateral trade between the two countries exceeded one billion United States dollars, indicating steady growth in economic engagement.

The statement also pointed to ongoing collaboration in the health and education sectors. Russian and Pakistani pharmaceutical companies are preparing to launch a joint project for insulin production in Pakistan. 

In the field of education, Russia has offered 152 scholarships to Pakistani students for the academic year 2025–2026, while the number of students learning the Russian language in Pakistani universities continues to rise each year.

Russia and Pakistan maintain close coordination at various international forums, including the United Nations and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. 

The statement described the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation as an important pillar for security and sustainable development in Eurasia, adding that Pakistan remains a significant partner in addressing global security challenges.

Reaffirming their commitment, the Russian side expressed its intention to further strengthen relations between the two countries and their peoples.

It emphasised continued efforts to expand cooperation across political, economic, educational, cultural and humanitarian fields, while extending warm congratulations to Pakistan on the anniversary of diplomatic ties.

Reporter: Anwar Abbas