Islamabad (TDI): The Russian Embassy in Islamabad hosted a special ceremony celebrating the 35th National Day of Russia. President of Pakistan, Asif Ali Zardari, graced the ceremony as the chief guest. Other notable speakers included the Governor of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) Tariq Fatemi, and members of the diplomatic corps.
Russia’s National Day is celebrated in the memory of establishment of the present-day Russian Federation, on June 12, 1990. At the start of the event, national anthems of both Pakistan and Russia were played, after which the Russian Ambassador, Albert Khorev, gave his welcome remarks.
He emphasized that Russia remains a sovereign, powerful, and resilient nation, driven by the unwavering support of its people. Reflecting on the words of President Vladimir Putin, the Ambassador noted that Russia has historically played a unifying role in the region, stretching “from the Baltics to the Caucasus.”
Highlighting the steady progress in Pak-Russia relations, Ambassador Khorev stated that bilateral cooperation is advancing at a satisfactory pace across various sectors. He also expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s growing interest in Russian language and culture.
“We commend the Pakistani enthusiasm for learning the Russian language,” he remarked. “The Russian Mission is actively supporting the establishment and expansion of language learning institutions across the country.”
Addressing the guests at the ceremony, President Zardari said that Pakistan regards Russia as an important global power that has been a key player in ensuring regional peace and stability, particularly in the Eurasian region.
🇷🇺 On June 10, the Embassy of Russia in Pakistan hosted a reception in celebration of Russia’s National Day.
🇷🇺🇵🇰 The Chief Guest, President @AAliZardari, was joined by Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Syed Tariq Fatemi, Governor of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa @fkkundi,… pic.twitter.com/lSkO8YSd7q
— RusEmbassy_Pakistan (@RusEmbPakistan) June 11, 2025
He added that Pakistan and Russia have enormous potential for bilateral partnership in trade, investment, technology, and people-to-people exchanges. He extended congratulations to President Putin, Ambassador Khorev, and the people of Russia on their National Day.
“On this significant occasion, Pakistan joins Russia in celebrating this National Day, reflecting our solidarity and friendship. I am glad to state that our bilateral relations have improved over the years, based on mutual respect, cooperation, and shared interests in various fields,” the President said.
President Zardari also noted the Moscow trip undertaken by SAPM Tariq Fatimi, where he had a very promising meeting with the Russian Foreign Minister, early this month, as both sides underscored the importance of peace and stability in the region.
Read More: Russia Welcome Pakistani Students, Says Education Secretary at Russian Embassy
“I am confident that the bonds of friendship between Pakistan and Russia will continue to strengthen. As we celebrate this important occasion tonight, let us reaffirm our commitment to building bridges of understanding and cooperation between our two nations… Long Live Pakistan-Russia friendship,” the President added.
The event came to an end with Russian musician’s performance on traditional folk music of the country. Various displays of Russian culture were also a highlight of the event. A cake cutting also took place to mark the celebrations.
Sohail Majeed
Sohail Majeed is a Special Correspondent at The Diplomatic Insight. He has twelve plus years of experience in journalism & reporting. He covers International Affairs, Diplomacy, UN, Sports, Climate Change, Economy, Technology, and Health.
