Russian envoy hails Faiz as voice of peace and liberation

The Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Pakistan, Albert Khorev, has described Faiz Ahmad Faiz as one of Asia’s most celebrated poets whose people-centric poetry earned immense admiration in the former Soviet Union and continues to resonate in Russia today.

In a video message issued on the occasion of Faiz’s 115th birth anniversary, the Russian envoy said Faiz’s poetry played a pivotal role in inspiring national liberation movements across the Third World against Western colonial dominance and imperialism.

He noted that Faiz’s work significantly contributed to the struggle for political and religious freedom in parts of Asia and Africa, particularly during anti-colonial movements.

The message was presented at a special ceremony held at the Russian Centre for Science, Education and Culture, organized in collaboration with the Association of Pakistani Graduates from Russia and CIS and the Pakistan–Russia Friendship Forum.

The ceremony was presided over by the VC of Leads University, Dr. Nadeem Bhatti, while Director General of Libraries Punjab Kashif Manzoor attended as chief guest.

Among other speakers were Dr. Musaddiq Hussain, President of the Pak–Russia Friendship Forum Dr. Iftikhar Bukhari, Professor Iftikhar Rasool Sheikh, Professor Asma Hassan, Professor Mashkoor Siddiqui, and Ghalib Bandesha.

In his message, Ambassador Khorev highlighted Faiz’s special bond with Moscow.

Recalling Faiz’s remarks at his 70th birthday celebration at the Moscow House of Friendship, the envoy quoted the poet as saying that Moscow taught him “love and hate — love for peace and hate for war.”

 Faiz had emphasized that loving peace alone is not sufficient; one must continuously strive to achieve it.

The ambassador observed that these words found a lasting place in the hearts of the Soviet people and continue to inspire the people of Russia.

He described Faiz’s message as a bridge between Pakistan and Russia, reflecting the shared sentiments and ideals of the two nations.

He also congratulated the Association of Pakistani Graduates from Russia and CIS, Ambassador of Russian Science, Education Dr. Shahid Hasan, Comrade Shahid Ali and the association’s president Prof Dr. Ashraf Nizami for organizing the commemorative event.

Expressing optimism, he said the ceremony would open new intellectual and cultural horizons inspired by the profound themes of Faiz’s poetry.

Speakers at the event paid rich tribute to Faiz’s literary brilliance, progressive ideology and enduring message of peace, love and hope.

They described him as a poet who instilled courage and optimism through his verses.

In his concluding remarks, Dr. Shahid Hasan thanked the participants and reaffirmed that the Russian Centre would continue to play a constructive role in strengthening Pakistan–Russia ties, particularly in the fields of education, science and culture.

The ceremony concluded with a melodious rendition of Faiz’s poetry by Kashf Sarwar, which drew warm appreciation from the audience.