Karachi (TDI): Two Russian Navy frigates and a medium sea tanker arrived in Karachi on a goodwill visit. The Director General Public Relations (DGPR) of Pakistan Navy, Commodore Ahmed Hussain, announced the visit.
The frigates, RFS REZKIY & RFS ALDAR TSYDENZHAPOV, and the sea tanker, RFS PECHENGA, received a warm welcome on their arrival. The Russian Consul General and Defense Attaché were also present while the Pakistan Navy welcomed the crew.
During this port call, the crew of the frigates will engage in professional discussions with the Pakistan Navy and both sides will also take part in joint exercises.
In addition, bilateral ship visits will also be exchanged. The DGPR of Pakistan Navy said that the joint exercises will enhance interoperability and “maritime cooperation.”
During port call, crew of visiting ships will engage in professional discussions with PN personnel & participate in bilateral ship visits. Furthermore, Russian & Pakistani naval ships will conduct joint exercises aimed at enhancing interoperability and maritime cooperation. (2/2) pic.twitter.com/j53Ga5RODZ
— DGPR (Navy) (@dgprPaknavy) March 16, 2025
The arrival of Russian warships and tanker marks an important development in Pakistan and Russia’s maritime diplomacy and cooperation.
Defense cooperation and joint maritime exercises are a significant part of Pakistan-Russia relations. Last year, in October, both countries reached an agreement to increase cooperation in naval technology and maritime security.
Since then, bilateral trainings, joint exercises, and naval visits are a regular feature of their defense diplomacy.
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Recently, in the trilateral joint naval drill of China, Russia, and Iran in the Gulf of Oman, Pakistan Navy participated as an observer.
Diplomatic relations between Russia and Pakistan opened in May, 1948. Since then, both countries have extensively cooperated across various sectors of mutual interest, including defense and security.
Military cooperation stands out in Pakistan-Russia relations, and joint military exercises called “Friendship” are a regular feature of this partnership.
