The Embassy of the Russian Federation in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan hosted a grand reception at a local hotel in Islamabad to celebrate Russia’s National Day. The President of Pakistan, Asif Ali Zardari, attended the event as the chief guest. President Asif Ali Zardari highlighted the significant untapped opportunities in Pakistan-Russia relations. He stressed the importance of enhancing collaboration across key areas such as trade, investment, technological development, and cultural as well as people-to-people exchanges.

Speaking at a ceremony marking the 35th National Day of the Russian Federation, President Zardari highlighted the growing partnership between the two countries. The event was attended by Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Tariq Fatemi, Russian Ambassador Albert Khorev, and members of the diplomatic corps and media representatives. “Pakistan views Russia as a key global power, playing an essential role in regional peace and stability, particularly across the Eurasian landscape,” President Zardari said.

The ceremony began with the national anthems of Russia and Pakistan, observed with solemn respect, symbolizing the enduring friendship and mutual respect between the two nations Extending heartfelt congratulations to Russian President Vladimir Putin, Ambassador Khorev, and the people of Russia, President Zardari reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties. “Over the years, our relations have steadily improved, built on mutual respect, cooperation, and shared interests,” he noted.

The president pointed to recent high-level engagements that have helped lay the groundwork for closer collaboration. He also referenced a fruitful meeting between Special Assistant Tariq Fatemi and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Moscow earlier this month, where both sides reaffirmed their commitment to regional peace and bilateral cooperation. “I am confident our friendship will continue to flourish,” President Zardari said. “Tonight’s celebration is not just a commemoration—it is a reaffirmation of our shared future. Let us seize the opportunities ahead and build a more prosperous tomorrow together. Long live Pakistan-Russia friendship.”

Earlier in his welcome remarks, Ambassador Albert Khorev described Russia as a sovereign, resilient nation, supported by the unity and resolve of its people. Quoting President Putin, he emphasized Russia’s historical role as a unifying force “from the Baltics to the Caucasus.” Ambassador Khorev praised the positive trajectory of Pak-Russia ties and noted the increasing interest of Pakistanis in Russian language and culture. “We commend this enthusiasm and are actively supporting the growth of Russian language institutions across the country,” he said.

He also reaffirmed Russia’s continued support for Pakistan on global platforms, highlighting progress in education, diplomacy, and mutual development.

The evening concluded with a captivating performance by the guitarist group 'Bogema' — Evgenii Soprunov (balalaika) and Kristina Kochmarik (violin) — who added a cultural flourish to the Russian National Day reception in Islamabad, making it a memorable diplomatic celebration.