Vipusknik 4-2016

Association of Pakistani Graduates from Russia & CIS

Special Issue 2016

 Visit: President of Belarus
 Russia Pakistan Military Exercise
 Celebration of Award for Mr. Habib Ahmed
 Dr. Shahid Hasan’s Services Honored
 Diplomatic Roundup of CIS countries
 Social activities APGR&CIS , Friendship House ,

Chamber of Commerce,

 Trade delegation to Russia and CIS Countries
 Russian Film Festivals in Lahore / Karachi

2

RUSSIAN TROOPS IN PAKISTAN- A series of war games known as “Friendship 2016”
JOINT EXERCISE : By Dr. Shahid Hasan kicked off at a Special Forces academy in Cherat.
During the ceremony, Russian forces showed Paki-
stanis their weaponry, including the VSS Vintorez

sniper rifle and the NRS-2 combat knife.
To start, over 40 soldiers from the two countries
took part in a mountain training exercise. Carrying
equipment weighing around 15kg, representatives
from the Southern Military District’s mountain in-
fantry brigade based in Karachay-Cherkessiya
demonstrated how to make a safety mechanism
using a station knot.
Their Pakistani colleagues returned the favor,
showing them another safety mechanism using a
special rope with three knots. Both systems would
be useful under extreme circumstances, where
access to resources is limited.
Russian and Pakistani troops are taking part in the
Friendship 2016 war games, at an altitude of over
4,500 feet. “Moscow and Islamabad are interested
in deepening military-to-military rela-
tions,” Pakistani Ambassador to Russia, Mr. Qazi
Khalilullah told the TASS news agency. “This obvi-
ously indicates a desire on both sides to broaden
defense and military-technical cooperation.”In
2014, Russia agreed to supply defense equipment
to Pakistan, and in 2015 Pakistan used the oppor-
tunity to buy four Mi-35 gunship helicopters. Also
in 2015, Chief of Army Staff General Raheel Sharif

visited Moscow and laid a wreath at the Tomb of
the Unknown Soldier.

3

Denis Manturov Appointed as Co Chairman Russia– Pakistan
Intergovernmental Commission: By Dr. Shahid Hasan

President Vladimir Putin has nominated of Honour and II class Medal of Merit
Dr. Denis Manturov, Minister of Trade and for the Fatherland. Mr. Habib Ahmed
Industry, Russian Federation, as Co Chair- Honorary Consul of Russian Federa-
man Russia Pakistan Inter governmental tion, Lahore, Association of Pakistan
commission Graduates from Russia and CIS , Paki-
Mr. Denis Manturov, is an economist, born stan Russia Business Council and Pa-
on February, 23, 1969 in Murmansk. He kistan Community Association Mos-
was graduated from Lomonosov Moscow cow has congratulated Dr. Denis
State University, with a major in Sociology Manturov and express that he with
in 1994. He also graduated from the Rus- his good office, as Minster of trade
sian Presidential Academy of National and industry, will lead intergovern-
Economy and Public Administration in mental commission in strengthening
2006 with a major in Law. Mr. Denis Man- bilateral relations between our coun-
tries.
turov has a Ph.D. in Economics. He served
as deputy CEO of Ulan-Ude Aviation Plant,
CCO of Mil Moscow
Helicopter Plant, CEO
of UIC ‘Oboronprom,
deputy Minister of
Energy and Industry
of Russian Federation
and deputy Minister
of Trade and Industry
of Russian Federation.
Presently, he is now
serving as minister of
Trade and Industry of
Russian Federation.
Dr. Manturov was
awarded with Order
of Friendship, Order

Russian LNG: "Gazprom"
offer to Pakistan

The central office of PJSC "Gazprom" held a working
meeting of Alexey Miller, Chairman of the Board
with the Minister of Petroleum and Natural Re-
sources of Pakistan Shahid Khakan Abbasi.
Both sides discussed prospective directions of coop-
eration. In particular, the possibility of supplying
Russian LNG to Pakistan and the participation of
"Gazprom" in projects for exploration and produc-
tion of hydrocarbons in the country.

4

New & Views Russian Honorary Consul Lahore

Honorary Consul :

Hosted Reception for Mr. Yury P. Sentyurin

Mr. Yury P. Sentyurin- Deputy Minister of Energy of Russian Federation and Chairman
Russian-Pakistan Working Group on Energy Cooperation t6ogather with delegation
from Rosteck-Global Resources, Charge D Affair of Embassy and Mr Habib Ahmed ex-
changed views on the development of Russian-Pakistani cooperation in the energy
field. In particular, special attention was paid to the participation of Russian companies in
projects in the energy sector of Pakistan. In addition, further cooperation in the frame-
work of existing inter-agency and intergovernmental mechanisms of bilateral cooperation
before the end of 2016, were discussed. Mr. Habib Ahmed hosted reception in the honor of
visiting delegation

Dr. Shahid Hasan Participated in International Economic Forum

Dr Shahid Hasan, Chief organizer Association of Pakistan since 1997, and its main audience were heads of state and

Graduates from Russia and CIS participated in St. Peters- political leaders, heads of major Russian and foreign busi-

burg International Economic Forum held in June 2016 at ness, representatives of scientific and academic communi-

the new site in the CEC "Expoforum". ty, the media and civil society.

Petersburg International Economic Forum held annually 5

Public Talk at ISSI : “Pakistan-Russian Relations” with
Ambassador of the Russian Federation

“Pakistan is seen in Russia as an important In a land-
and reliable partner with whom relations mark defence
deal, Russia
could be developed”. He cited the geostrategic last year
position of Pakistan and challenges and inter- agreed to sell
ests shared by the two countries as the moti- Mi-35 heli-
vation for Moscow to work for better and copters to
stronger bilateral relations. Pakistan.

Over the past few years, the two countries have “Technical
signed important agreements for military-to- issues related

military cooperation, and technical military co- to delivery of
operation, besides regularising meetings of the helicopters
Inter-Governmental

Commission and
initiating a business
and investment fo-
rum. The two coun-

tries are also close
to resolving a
longstanding eco-
nomic dispute that

led to freezing of
Russian assets
worth $120 million
in Pakistan. A draft agreement has been ini- are being discussed now, which may require
tialled and a final accord is likely soon. The row time,” Mr Dedov said about the helicopters’ sale
was a major obstacle to economic cooperation describing it as a “pilot deal”. He hoped that the
between the two countries. “Pre-requisites cooperation (military hardware export) would
have been met.… the foundation has been laid develop. Russia is also supporting Pakistan’s
and there are chances of success,” Mr Dedov entry into Shanghai Cooperation Organisation
(SCO). The diplomat said that Moscow was also
observed. focusing on creating a positive atmosphere in

South Asia (in a reference to India-Pakistan
ties) and believes that the SCO could provide
the platform for fostering confidence and coop-

eration between Delhi and Islamabad. Mr

Dedov said that the upcoming SCO meeting in
Tashkent would provide a good opportunity
for a meeting between President Putin and
Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. The two leaders

last met on the sidelines of the SCO summit in
Ufa in July 2015.

6

News & View s : Embassy of Pakistan to Russian Federation

Defence Day of Pakistan was observed on 14 Sep-
tember, 2016 in Moscow. The event was widely

attended by Defence Day Celebrated in Moscow

representa-

tives of the scholars and journalists. The Pakistani community in Mos-
Russian cow, enthusiastically participated to celebrate which high-

Defence lighted ‘Defense Day.” A higher level representation of Rus-

Ministry, sian Armed Forces were significant it was reflection of
foreign mili- Russian-Pakistan military cooperation. A large number of

tary atta- defense attaches of several countries were also present

ches, diplo-

matic corps,

7

Mr. Habib Ahmed Honorary
Consul of Russian Federation
Lahore , hosted dinner in the hon-
or of Sardar Ayaz Sadiq , Speaker
National Assembly upon his

successful visit of Russia ,
Ambassador of Russian federa-
tion, diplomates of various coun-
tries, parliamentarian, official and
business community participated

8

Russia—Pakistan: Turning a New Chapter
Ambassador Alexey Y. Dedov Visit to Lahore

Report: Ashique Hamdani

The Russian Ambassador participated in a H.E. Mr. Alexey Y. Dedov, the Russian Ambassador
ceremonial reception on the occasion of present- in Pakistan, visited Lahore, where he paid a cour-

ing the Russian President’s Special Medal t o the tesy call on
Honorary Consul of the Russian Federation in La- the Gover-
hore Mr. Habib Ahmed on the 70th anniversary of nor of Pun-
the Victory in the Great Patriotic War. H.E. Mr. jab, H.E. Mr.

Alexey Y. Dedov also presented letters of commen- M.R. Rajwa-
dation to Mr. Habib Ahmed and Dr. Shahid Hasan na. Both
for “Contribution to Cooperation and Friendship sides dis-
between Russia and Pakistan “. Around 400 guests cussed is-

attended the event including representatives from sues per-
political and business circles of Pakistan, Pakistani taining to
graduates from Russian and the CIS countries’ uni- the positive
versities and journalists. H.E. Mr. M.R. Rajwana develop-

was the Chief Guest at the function ment of the
Russia-
Pakistan

relations.
They noted
the growing
number of bi-
lateral politi-
cal contacts
during the last
months and
good pro-
spects for in-
tensifying

9

10

The major emphasis was put on discussing the plans on Rus-
sian companies’ participation in implementing various re-
gional energy projects.

During his visit, The Russian ambassador visited the Gov-
ernment College University in Lahore and met the vice chan-
cellor and other academic and administrative heads to talk
about dangers from linking Muslims to global terrorism,
including the Islamic State, also known as the Islamic State
of Iraq and Syria. H.E. Alexey Yurivich Dedov said it was

wrong to associate Muslims with terror and the ISIS was a trade zone between Russia, Pakistan and other trade partners
much bigger threat than the al Qaeda. He also talked about the was also discussed. Chairman, PBIT, Abdul Basit said Russia
terror army's exploitation of natural resources, including oil. could evaluate the possibilities of collaboration with Pakistan
He discussed technical cooperation in several projects in Paki- in marble and granite mining too. Oil and gas is another sector
stan too. Vice Chancellor Professor Doctor Hassan Amir Shah where Russia’s experience and technology could help Pakistan,
said it was the first visit by a Russian diplomat in the past he said.

many years and hoped the latter would The Russian Ambassador also held bilateral meetings at the

His Excellency A.Y. Dedov was invited by Punjab Board of In- Trade and Commerce Chamber in Lahore, chaired the Russia-
vestment and Trade (PBIT) during his stay in Lahore. The am- Pakistan Friendship Forum meeting, participated in the launch
bassador stressed the need for frequent bilateral exchange of of the book “My Last War” by the Russian writer, General
delegations to promote Pak-Russia ties. He expressed the (Retd.) M. Gareev (translated from Russian into Urdu by Mr.
views during his visit to Punjab Board of Investment and Trade Najamul Sahar Bhatta) and also made a speech at the two-day
(PBIT) on Wednesday along with Consul General Oleg N Av- Russian Cinema Festival launching ceremonythat took place at
deev, Honorary Council Habib Ahmed and Trade representa- the Lahore University.

tive Yury M. Kozlov.

The purpose of the visit was to discuss Pak-Russia trade possi-
bilities. The delegation showed keen interest in importing cit-
rus fruits from Pakistan, especially Kinow. They discussed Hal-
al food trade between Punjab and Republic of Tatarstan. The
Ambassador proposed an annual forum to be held in Russia to
attract investments in the energy sector. The delegation invit-
ed PBIT to share potential projects and to interact with pro-
spective investors in Russia. The possibility of declaring a free

11

RUSSIAN AMBASSADOR VISITS
GCU

Russian Ambassador to Pakistan Alexey Yurivich Dedov vis- Dr. Shahid Hasan Appreciated
ited the GC University Lahore and met with Prof Dr Hassan for Services in Russia Pakistan
Amir Shah Vice Chancellor and other academic and adminis-
trative heads. Relations
The Russian ambassador said that there was a handsome
population of Muslims in Moscow and some other areas of His Excellency Alexey Dedov Ambassador of Russian
Russia. He also highlighted technical cooperation of Russia Federation presented Awarded of Honor to Dr. Shahid
in several projects in Pakistan. Alexey Y. Dedov expressed Hasan, Chief Organizer Association of Pakistan, Chief Edi-
his all-out support to GCU and other educational institutions tor Vipusknik , for his noteworthy contributions and
for establishing exchange programmes and academic linkag- service in Russia – Pakistan cultural and business rela-
es with Russian universities. tions .
Speaking on occasion, Vice Chancellor
Prof. Dr. Hassan Amir Shah said it was the
first visit of a Russian diplomat of GCU in
the last many years, and hoped that Alexey
Yurivich Dedov would also spare time in
the near future to address the University
students on geopolitics and new trends in
Pak-Russia relations.
Later, the Russian ambassador visited the
Iqbal hostel where the great philosopher,
Allama Muhammad Iqbal, spend four
years of his student life. He also admired
the gothic architecture and green land-
scape of the GC University Campus.

My Last War

Translated in Urdu

The Urdu translation of Russian language book ‘My Last War (Afghanistan
without Soviet)’ by Russian Army General Makhmut Akhmetovich Gareyev
by Dr Najamul Sahar, is published and launched. Russian Ambassador His excellency Alexey Y Dedov was the chief
guest on the occasion whereas Jamhoori Publication Chief Executive and renowned anchor Farrukh Sohail Goindi,
human rights activist IA Rahman, former minister Sardar Asif Ahmad Ali and journalist Sohail Warraich were also
present on the occasion. Dr Najamul Sahar, while addressing, said that he chose to translate this book because the
writer presented all matters of the Afghan war in a balanced manner. He added that the writer’s aim was to bring peo-
ple of both the countries closer, as people of Pakistan need to understand the Russian people, their culture and life-
styles.

12

Russian Film Festival inaugurated in Lahore

His Excellency
Alexey Dedov sug-
gested cooperation
between Russian
and Pakistan Film
Industry. He was
addressing an in-
augural ceremony
of Russian Film
Festival at BZU
Lahore campus.
He said that first
film in Russia was
displayed in 1896.
Russian film in-
dustry has strong
international tra-
ditions since 20th
Century. The Mos-
cow International
Film Festi-
val began in Mos-
cow in 1935;
the Nika Award is
the main annual
national film
award in Russia.

13 13

Eminent film director and Chairman Pakistan Film
Producers Association, Mr. Syed Noor addressed
the Russia Film Festival and warmly welcome his
Excellency Ambassador. He appreciated organisers
of Film Festival and viewed that it would appear to
be a productive event for Pakistan film industry.
Mr. Noor said that Pakistan film industry remained

Syed Noor Warmly Welcomed
Russian Film Festival

in condition of destruction for many years but now
the rehabilitation process of film industry was
speeding up with every passing day. He said Russia
Pakistan co production can be a great sign for film
industry in Pakistan.

14

Yuri Kozlov painting: Exhbition at COMSATS Institute
Report By Farrah Mahmood Adnan

COMSATS Institute of Information Technology (CIIT)
welcomed art lovers from all walks of life to our Is-
lamabad Campus as it kicked off a two-day Solo
Painting Exhibition of Russian Artist and Trade Repre- Both countries are now moving towards improved

sentative of the Russian Federation in Pakistan, Mr. relations, and cooperation in various areas is their pri-
Yuri Kozlov at COMSAT Art Gallery (CAG) in collabora- ority, he said.
tion of Association of Pakistani Graduates from Russia Head IO, Dr. Arshad S. Malik also apprised the officials

of the emerging ties of CIIT with a few educational and
research institutions in Russia and urged that broad
based academic ties between both countries are both
necessary and welcome. The Ambassador also met
with a few students, who are soon to disembark on
their first trip to Siberia to participate in an I.T Winter
School at Tomsk State University, and Advisor, Dr.
Mais Suleymanov, our foreign faculty from Azerbaijan.

& CIS Countries coordinated
by Dr. Shahid Hasan, Ashique
Hamdani and journalist Syed

Almas Kazmi. The Exhibition
was hosted by The Associa-
tion of Pakistani Graduates

from Russia & CIS in joint col-
laboration with CAG and the

International Office.
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Em- Rector

bassy of Russian Federation, H.E Alexey Dedov was (CIIT),
invited as the Guest of Honor to inaugurate the exhibit. Dr. S.M.

The Ambassador of the Republic of Belarus, H.E An- Junaid
drei Ermolovich also accompanied the Russian Am- Zaidi,

bassador among several other dignitaries from the flew in
diplomatic circles. from

Parliamentarian, Senator Sehar Kamran was also Riyadh
among the guests who visited the exhibit and spoke where

regarding the growing ties between the two countries. he had
She also appreciated the efforts of CIIT for their educa- been at
tional contributions and promotion of cross-cultural a con-

understanding. While inaugurating the exhibition, the ference of the Federation of Universities of the Islamic
ambassador commented on the breakthrough in bilat- World (FUIW), and joined the dignitaries for refresh-

eral relations in 2015 between Pakistan and Russia. ments.

15

News& Views: APGR&CIS Meeting of APGR&CIS, KPK
Chapter meeting held in
Peshawar : Report
Eng. Iftikhar Ali

opening of consulate of the Russian Federation
in Peshawar, increasing scholarships for Paki-
stan and especially for KP and other issues
which families and graduates from the states of
former Soviet Union faces and requested H.E
Ambassador to look into these and play his role
Association of Pakistani Graduates from Russia and CIS, for its resolution.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chapter organized a meeting in H.E Ambassador of the Russian Federation briefly dis-
Peshawar in which representatives of graduates from
Russia & CIS of all districts of KP participated. H.E Am-
bassador of the Russian Federation to Pakistan, Mr. Alex-
ey Y. Dedov was the chief guest at the occasion and was
accompanied by Mr. Youri M, Kazlov, Trade representa-
tive and Mr. Evgeny, counselor visa section.
Senior Graduates Dr. Khushal Khan, Dr. Shahid Hassan
and Engr. Iftikhar Ali, General Secretary Association of
Pakistani Graduates from Russia & CIS attended the
meeting. Engr. Iftikhar Ali, welcomed the honorable

cussed the issues, issued

instructions to his team

for extending all possi-

ble help to the graduates

and their families. H.E

Ambassador also as-

sured the graduates that

their issues will be re-

guests and explained the role of the Association in solved on priority and suggestions will be welcomed for

strengthening friendly relations between Pakistan and further assistance by the embassy. He also requested the

Russia. He thanked Russian government for educating the association to send a formal letter for increase of scholar-

citizens of Pakistan who are now playing important role in ships and mention the disciplines in which the scholar-

the different fields for the development of the country. ships shall be awarded. Mr. Alexy Y. Dedov appreciated

Dr. Khushal khan, described some important issues like the role of the Association and thanked the organizers for

organizing such a beautiful event.

Dr. Khushal khan and Engr. Iftikhar

Ali presented the gift of handmade

carpets to H. E Ambassador of the

Russian Federation and his team.

16

APGR&CIS Meeting held in
Islamabad:
Report Ashique Hamdani

A meeting of Association of Pakistani Graduates
from Russia and CIS countries from Punjab, KPK
and Kashmir Chapters held in Islamabad. Mr. Yury
Nikolaevich Zozulya , Director Russian Center for
Science and Culture Karachi was Chief Guest. Dr.
Sergei Baranov, Counsellor, Embassy of Russian
Federation Islamabad was also attended meeting.
Mr. Yury Nikolaevich Zozulya hopes for closer coop-
eration with Pakistan in the education sector. He
briefed delegates about Russian education policies
particularly in the area of scholarship and state
grant program. Russia and Pakistan having several
agreements to promote bilateral cooperation in
education, which in complying emerging dynamics,
becoming more important in future. He said we are
paying special attention to Soviet and Russian Grad-
uates as state organization; we are limited toward
non-commercial activities only, in the context of
self-paid study programs. He said Vispusknik are
enabled to contribute for introducing Russian lan-
guage and culture in Pakistan.
During the meeting, participants focused on schol-
arship, organizational
issues and coordination
with Russian Center for
Science and Culture Ka-
rachi. Dr. Shahid Hasan,
Eng. Iftikhar Ali, Mr. Za-
hid Durani (MPA KPK),
Mr. Kushal Khan, mr.
Ashique Hamdani, Mr.
Saradr Abid Khan, Prof
Dr. Qaisrani, Dr. khwaja
Farid Tair Kakar Mr.
Javed Afraidi, Dr Pervez
Ghani, and
others par-
ticipated in
debate. It
was high-
lighted that
regional
chapters of
Association
of Pakistan
Graduates
from Rus-
sia and CIS
countries
are having
vital role and scope of work with defined tasks and priorities program of Russia for foreign
to build trust between Russia and Pakistan. Mr. Ziauddin students.
Siddique Administrator Russian Center for Science & Culture
presented a briefing about procedure of state scholarship

17

Dr. Sergei Baranov, Counsellor,
Embassy of Russian Federation
Islamabad was optimistic and
briefed about current develop-
ment in political, economic, peace,
security and other areas of com-
mon interests. He observed that
current friendly trends which in-
cluding cooperation in energy and
defence sector are sign of mutual
trust and further dimension of our rela-
tions. He observed that Association of
Pakistan Graduates from Russia and CIS
countries is playing very constructive role
for promotion of scientific, cultural, politi-
cal and academic collaboration between
Russian Federation and Pakistan.
Dr. Shahid Hasan, Chief Editor Vipusknik
hosted dinner in the honor of Mr. & Mrs.
Yury Ni-
kolaevich
Zozulya ,

Mr & Mrs.
Dr. Sergei
Baranov
and dele-
gates of
meeting.

18

Diplomatic News & National Day of Russia celebrated in
Views: CIS & Russia Na- Islamabad
tional Days Celebra-
tion

Ambassador of Russian Federation friendship for the future was in the air and felt by ma-
Alexey Dedov hosted a grand and jority in the reception, ex-
well attended reception to mark the
National Day of his country in Is-
lamabad.
The official participation was not
only up to the mark but was the re-
flection of rapidly growing relations
between two countries. It was obvi-
ous that both countries were looking

to the past memory but moving in the right direction

pressing the hope that this

friendship will become a
symbol of peace and pros-

perity for the region. FPCCI

President Abdul Rauf Alam,

on this occasion, exchanged
views about the ways and

means to improve trade and

economic corporation be-
tween the two countries.

to enhance the corporation in various fields. Abdul Rauf Alam is also planning to visit Russia with a

Federal Minister for Defence Khawaja Muhammad Asif business delegation.
was the chief guest on the occasion. Highlighting Pakistan-Russia growing relations, Alexey

Governor Punjab Malik Muhammad Rafique Rajwana, Dedov said that three weeks earlier, Federal Minister

Balochistan Governor Muhammad Khan Achakzai for Defence Khawaja Muhammad Asif had visited Rus-

and Minister for Planning, Development & Reform sia, whereas National Security Advisor Lieuten-
Professor Ahsan Iqbal, Federal Minister For National ant General (Retd) Nasir Janjua and Governor Balochi-

Food Security Sikandar Hayat Khan Bosan, Special As- stan Muhammad Khan Achakzai have retuned back

sistant to the Prime Minister Syed Tariq Fatemi, Addi- from Russia few days ago. Minister for Planning, Devel-
tional Secretary for Foreign Affairs Rafi Ud din opment & Reform Professor Ahsan Iqbal is the real

Saddique, Director General for Foreign Affairs Shafqat architect of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

Ali Khan , National Security Advi-
sor Lieutenant General

(Retd) Nasir Janjua were

some prominent govern-
mental Officials present on

this occasion. Senator

Aitzaz Ahsan also partici-

pated.
Chinese Ambassa-

dor Sun Weidong was the

only ambassador from Dip-
lomatic Corp who was pre-

sent on the stage with the

Russian ambassador and
Pakistan dignitaries. Russia,

Pakistan and Chinese

19

Tajikistan Embassy celebrated national day

Tajikistan’s Ambassador Sherali Jonovov and his wife structures, the members of the Eastern poet’s family of
welcomed hundreds of guests to an event to celebrate Allama Muhammad Iqbal and the ancestors of the fa-
Tajikistan’s 25th year as an independent state after the mous thinker Sultan Bahu, members of the Tajik dias-
fall of the Soviet Union. The representative of the Gov- pora residing in Pakistan. On the eve of the event the
ernment of Pakistan, Federal Minister for Water and Pakistani media published articles on social and eco-
Power, who is also Defence Minister, co-chairman of nomic development and bilateral cooperation between
the Intergovernmental Commission and the Joint Com- Tajikistan and Pakistan, including the energy sector.
mission on energy and infrastructure between Tajiki- The video-records of the process of celebration events
stan and Pakistan Khawaja Muhammad Asif attended in Tajikistan were covered by state television.
the ceremony as a Chief Guest. At the event the Guest The event was followed by the reception, publications
of Honor was the Governor of Punjab province Malik
Muhammad Rafiq Rajwana, the Mayor of Islamabad
Ansar Aziz, Special Secretary of Foreign Ministry Wa-
heed-ul-Hasan, and other management staff of the Min-
istry of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan, president of the
Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and
Industry Abdu Rauf Alam, representatives of other
government structures, members of the National As-
sembly and the Senate, the prominent personalities of
various political parties, heads of high education insti-
tutions, the highest officers of the Armed Forces, repre-
sentatives of the business, academic and public circles,
the official delegation of Pakistan’s provinces, heads of
foreign diplomatic missions and international financial
institutions in Islamabad, heads of UN missions and its

Privatizations: Russian Investors Are The Honorary Consul Mr. Habib
Invited Ahmed visited Russia.

Pakistan hopes to see among the participants of the pri- Mr. Habib Ahmed Honorary Consul of Russian Feder-
vatization of its state-owned assets, of investors from ation, Lahore Pakistan paid an official visit to Russia.
Russia, told RIA Novosti, the Pakistani Minister for Pri- Accompanying with a business delegation including
vatization Mohammad Zubair to RIA Novosti. Lt. Gen ( R) Mr. Haroon Asalm, Chairman Fauji Meat
Ltd, he travelled to Moscow, Kazan and Ufa to meet
The minister said that Pakistan has a successful experi- the Russian authorities in Moscow, regional authori-
ence of cooperation with Russian investors in the steel ties in Tatarstan and Bashkortostan, Russia Pakistan
and energy sectors, and is ready to strengthen coopera- business council, large sector of business communi-
tion in the framework of the privatization process under- ties and Pakistani community association in Russia.
way in the country. Pakistan, offered the Russian Feder- Mr. Habib Ahmed held meetings with Chairman Ta-
ation to take part in the privatization of oil and gas and tarstan investment Agency, Minster of trade and In-
power companies. dustry, Minister of Agriculture and President of Ta-
tarstan Chamber of Commerce and Industry. He held
"The Prime Minister of Pakistan is ready to open our several meetings in Russia Federation Chamber of
country for partners from Russia. We want to increase Commerce and Industry. He hosted a dinner in the
the trade turnover between our countries, to increase honor of Ambassador of Pakistan which was attend-
exports to the Russian Federation, as well as see the pri- ed by Deputy Head of the Mission and Defense Atta-
vate Russian investors, including in privatization deals, che. 20
"- he said. "Our high-quality textiles is recognized world-
wide. We would be happy to supply the goods to the Rus-
sian market. " Source: ria.ru

News& Views: Russia-Pakistan RPFF Hosted Reception in the
Friendship Forum Lahore Honor of Russian Ambassador

Pakistan-Russia Friendship Forum La-
hore hosted a colorful reception in the
honor of His Excellency Alexey Y.
Dedov, Ambassador of Russian Federa-
tion, at Bagh e Jinnah. A large number
of intellectuals, scholars, researchers,
journalists, artists, business community
and writers participated and raised
important issues of current internation-
al situation and importance of bilateral
relations between Russia and Pakistan.
Lahore, which always is a center of left

democratic political trends and trade
unions in Pakistan have bounded feel-
ing for
Russia
since
the So-
viet
times. A
few
notable
writers
pre-
sented
their
books
on Karl
Marx,
Lenin,
Soviet revolution and literature in Urdu languages. Rus-
sian Ambassador Alexey Y. Dedov expressed warm
words for hospitality and feelings of Lahore city. He
said that Russia feels Pakistan as a partner for peace
and development in this region. He spoke about in-
creasing political ties that includes the recent visit of
parliamentarians, government officials and business
community of both countries. Dr. Iftikhar
Hussain Bokhari (President), Dr. Shahid Hasan, Mr.
Qadeer Saighol (Gen Secretary), Mr. Kaleem Ahmed
(Vice President), Khawaja Asif (Secretary), Ms Fatima
Ghazal, welcomed the guests of event.

21

Ambassador His Excellency Dedov Visited KPK

His Excellency Alexey Dedov visited KPK, he conducted Mr. Amir Muqam Khan, Advisor to Prime Minister of Paki-
several meeting including Governor, provincial minsters stan. District Nazim Swat hosted reception in the honor of
and representative of business community. He addressed Russian Ambassador in scenic Miandam velley. His Excel-
a seminar in Peshawar University. The Director of the lency Alexey Y. Dedov, expressed a scope of cooperation in
Area Study Centre, Dr Sarfraz Khan, who warmly wel- tourism sector between
comed the Russian diplomat at the centre, expressed the both countries. He ad-
hope that the University of Peshawar and Russian Re- mired natural beauty
search bodies should revive memorandums of under- and rich cultural herit-
standing signed earlier for conducting research on emerg- age of Gandhara civilisa-
ing issues and challenges in the region. tion which can attract
His Excellency Alexey Y. Dedov, Ambassador of Russian visitors from all over
Federation, visited Swat valley KPK. He was invited by the world. Russian Am-

bassador was briefed about pro-
gress and achievement in reha-
bilitation of swat, which was

22

H.E Ambassa-
dor of the Rus-
sian Federation
to Pakistan Mr.
Alexey Yurivich
Dedov visited
Khyber Pakh-
tunkhwa on
busy schedule.
During the visit
he meet with
Deputy Speaker
KP Assembly
Dr. Meher Taj
Roghani and
Minister of
Education and
Energy & Power
Mr. Atif Khan.
Mr. Evgeny
Consul Russian
Embassy, Mr.
Youri Kazlov,
Trade Repre-
sentative, Dr.
Shahid Hassan
(Chief Editor
Vipsknik), Engr.
Iftikhar Ali
(General Secre-
tary, APGR &
APGR&CIS con- CIS) were also
gratulates Vi- accompanied
pusknik Mr the Ambassa-
Kaushal Khan, dor. Deputy
a horned Sovi- Speaker re-
et/ Russian quested to in-
graduate, for crease the schol-
electing Executive Member of KPK Chamber of Commerce and Industry. He is also holding Pakistan Best arship for KP.
Exporter Award (Gold medal). APGR&CIS wish his successes and expects he will contribute to increase Later on the
trade, investment and technical cooperation with CIS countries Ambassador
met with Gover-
nor KP, Mr.
Zafar Iqbal
Jhagra.

A delegation comprising Yury prise Development Authority (SMEDA) received the Russian

Lahore: M Kozlov, Russian Federation envoys along with Sheharyar Tahir, head External Relations
trade representative in Paki- Department and Nadia Jahangir Seth, head Policy and Plan-

Russian Trade stan, and Dr Shahid Hasan, vis- ning Division of SMEDA. The officials of SMEDA identified
ited SMEDA head office . Ha- previous working with Russia and proposed development of
Representative roon Ahmad Khan, General direct linkages with SMEs and business organisations of Rus-

visited SMEDA Manager Business and Sector sia. He said there was a need for development of a joint infor-
Development Services and Dr mation sharing platform. hand-holding of SMEs for visits,

Naeem Rauf, GM-Central Sup- joint ventures, investment programmes and SME develop-

port, Small and Medium Enter- ment programmes.

23

Marriage Ceremony of Aniqa Hasan , Daughter of Dr. Shahid & Mrs. Noreen Hasan held
in Islamabad Ambassador of Russian Federations His Excellency Dedov, Honorary Con-
sul Mr. Habib Ahmed, foreign diplomates , members of APGRCIS, friend and warmly par-
ticipated. APGRCIS congratulate with best wishes to Aniqa and Saqib for blessed and

happy family life

24

25

President Alexander Lukashenko Visit;
Roadmap of Belarus- Pakistan Relations

By Asique Hamdani

In his previous visit, terrorism and offered his country's full

President of the Repub- support in this fight.

lic of Belarus Mr. Alexan- During this visit, both Belarus and Paki-
der Lukashenko stressed stan re endorsed their mutual interest in
upon the need for a the development of friendly relations and specified the areas of
"Roadmap of Coopera- interaction, taking into account current global situation. Presi-
tion between Belarus dent Alexander Lukashenko said “I would like to say that our
and Pakistan” in his pre- approaches to the development of bilateral relations are af-
vious visit to Pakistan. firmed since the previous meetings. I felt even more confident in
Since then, both coun- the sincere intent of our Pakistani partners to develop friendly
tries are eager to en- relations with Minsk relying on the principles of mutual trust
hance their bilateral co- and cooperation”
operation, which reflect-

ed during his current visit by signing seventeen agreements. The President of Belarus jointly inaugurated together with prime

President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko’s second visit to Pa- Minster of Pakistan, the 4th Pakistan-Belarus Investment & Busi-
kistan within sixteen months, together with more than 20 lead- ness Forum. The leading Belarussian companies such as Minsk
ing enterprise, has succeeded to establish mutually beneficial Tractor Works, BelAZ, Minsk Automobile Plant, Amkodor, Bobru-
opportunities. A large numbers of memorandum Understanding iskagromash and Gomselmash, participated in forum. In his
(MOU) were signed between the two countries related to the speech, President of Belarus encouraged Pakistani businessmen
expansion of areas of cooperation in the field of air services, edu- to more broadly use Belarus’ industrial capabilities for the sake
cation, postal, customs banking and other sectors during this of implementing various kinds of infrastructure projects, “Large
high profile visit. Belarusian companies, which have earned a good reputation on
the international market, are ready to work with you. President

President of Belarus visited Pakistan twice, on 29 May 2015 and Lukashenko, who reached Islamabad after visiting China, also

again on 4 Oct 2016. Prime Ministers of both countries also have were keen about participation of Belarus in the construction of

visited to each other countries, which initiated joint ventures in the Chinese-Pakistani Economic Corridor (CPEC),”

the textile, pharmaceutical and light industries while sharing

technological expertise with each

other. Pakistan maintains an Embas-

sy in Minsk, Belarus in Islamabad.

Pakistan exported $15.23 million 26
worth of items to Belarus in 2014,
out of which 36% was rice, 9.27%
light pure woven cotton, 10.03%
styrene polymers, 7.43% edible
preparations, 4.48% leather apparel
and 4% citrus. Pakistan’s imports
from Belarus stood at $42.65 million
which mainly consisted of tractors
(62.04%), artificial filament yarn
(13.01%) and rubber tires (8.06%).
Belarus has lauded Pakistan's role
and efforts in bringing peace and

stability 2to6the world by countering

the Belarusian President said while addressing forum

“Concrete steps should be taken to set up joint ventures for the

processing of meat and milk, baby food and tinned food. We

should definitely decide on 3-4 projects, which are important

for Belarus and Pakistan, and start implementing them imme-

diately. Great accomplishments begin with small steps. These

examples will demonstrate to businessmen in Belarus and Pa-

kistan how things should be done. Those, who will take care of

the projects, will be pioneers, pathfinders. Through them, Pa-

kistan and Belarus will take a closer look at the capabilities of

each other.”

President of Belarus emphasized “Belarus and Pakistan should should be maintained. "

step up efforts to enhance cooperation in science and technol- During high level official meetings both Belarus and Pakistan

ogy. The Belarus-Pakistan center for the coordination of the signed a package of documents on the development of cooper-

scientific, technological, and innovative cooperation was ation in various industries, including a memorandum of coop-

opened during this visit,” President Lukashenko said. “We will eration between the National Center of Marketing and Pricing

strengthen agricultural and industrial cooperation. In the near of the Belarusian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Trade

future we will exchange the visits of specialists to expand co- Development Authority of Pakistan, air transportation and

operation in these areas.” education agreements between the two governments.

According to President, in the near future serious progress can President of Belarus and Prime Minster of Pakistan issued a

be made into stepping up cooperation between banks, light & joint statement after the bilateral meeting includes strength-

textile industry, forestry industry, customs affairs, standardi- ening "inter-parliamentary relations," trade and economic

zation and certification. The possibility of arranging direct air relations, as well as the expansion of the legal framework of

flight between Belarus and Pakistan is under consideration. bilateral cooperation between Belarus and Pakistan. Joint

“The project fully depends on you. If you start travelling be- statement highlighted the prospects of bilateral relations and

tween Pakistan and Belarus, more than one flight will become reaffirms the need to promote and deepen them in the best

available,” the President noted. interests of Belarus and Pakistan. President of Belarus invited

President of Belarus invited the businessmen to more actively Prime Mister of Pakistan, which was accepted.

use the potential of interstate mechanisms, primarily the Bela- During visit President Alexander Lukashenko met with Presi-

rusian-Pakistani intergovernmental commission on trade and dent Mamnoon Hussain and Speaker of the National Assem-

economic cooperation and working groups on industrial and bly of Pakistan Sardar Ayaz Sadiq. Both of two meetings

agricultural cooperation. About the cooperation between Bela- praised the high level of Belarus-Pakistan cooperation and the

rus and Pakistan, the Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif said "Our resolution of the two countries to do their best to strengthen

two countries have a warm, friendly and multifaceted relations partnership in trade, economy, science, culture, education,

Pakistan is committed to building closer ties with Belarus in and other fields. President Lukashenko appreciated outcomes

all areas, including trade, economy, investment, industry, edu- of this visit and said that it is extremely important for Belarus-

cation, defense and agriculture, culture and other fields, the Pakistan relations to be full of trust and real economic con-

momentum increased exchanges at the highest level between tent. “I would like to note once again that the Belarusian side

the is open for intensive and scrupulous work with the Pakistani

two private sector in all the mutually beneficial avenues of cooper-

coun- ation. The Prime Minister and I have agreed to raise Belarus-

tries Pakistan trade up to $1 billion within four years. You are free

to make any arrangements you like, but the trade volume must

be at least $1 billion in four years,”

27

Business News & Views: Trade H.E Alexey Y. Dedov warmly welcomed
Representations- CIS/ Russia– in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chamber of
Commerce and Industries (KPCCI)
Diplomatic Visit, Chamber of Commerce, Report Engr. Iftikhar Ali
Trade Bodies, Trade Delegation, Exhibition

H. .E Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Pakistan Mr.

Alexey Yurivich Dedov visited Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chamber
of Commerce and Industries (KPCCI) on May 11th, 2016.

Speaking to the business community during his visit to the

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chamber of Commerce and Industry
(KPCCI), the envoy said, “Moscow and Islamabad can come

closer by improving bilateral trade. Russia is taking interest in

enhancing trade with Pakistan. For this purpose, more steps

should be taken.”
He informed that Pakistani traders and businessmen, espe-

cially of KP, had many opportunities to invest in Russia. “Our

traders and businessmen are also keenly interested in invest-
ing in Pakistan,” Dedov said. Besides others, KPCCI President

Zulfiqar Ali Khan, Trade Representative of Russian Federation “As a result of this, businessmen of both the countries will get

Yuri Kozlov, Counsel of the Russian Embassy Evgeny, coordi- an opportunity to get to know about investment opportunities
nator of the Russian Delegation Dr. Shahid Hassan, General in each other countries,” he noted.

Secretary Association of Pakistani Graduates from Russia & Earlier in his welcome address, KPCCI President Zulfiqar Ali

CIS Engr. Iftikhar Ali and prominent businessmen were also Khan termed the visit of Russian Ambassador to KPCCI a good

present at the occasion. omen and expressed the hope that interaction would be very
Recalling big projects set up by the former USSR in Pakistan, fruitful for the bilateral trade. “We feel there is great potential

including Pakistan Steel Mills (PSM), the Russian ambassador for bilateral trade in automobiles, construction, agriculture,

said that Russia was still interested in launching mega pro- energy, IT, steel, furniture, household equipment, textiles,
jects in Pakistan. meat and dairy sectors,” the KPCCI president suggested.

“Both the countries should work on removing hurdles in this He also appreciated Russian Federation’s decision of decreas-

connection,” he asserted. ing custom duty on Pakistani goods by 35 percent in the wake
Appreciating the ongoing military operation Zarb-e-Azb of devastating floods in the country in 2010.

against the terrorists, he expressed the hope that it would The KPCCI President also assured the visitors that for improv-

bring economic prosperity to Pakistan. ing quantum of trade between the two countries, KPCCI was

He agreed with the idea of the KPCCI president about increas- ready to sign MoU with Russian Federation Chamber of Com-
ing exchange of business delegations between both the coun- merce and Industry to enhance mutually beneficial relations

tries so that people to people contacts could improve. between the two countries.

He said that Pakistan
had offered lucrative

incentives to the foreign

investors.
“Therefore, the Russian

investors should ex-

plore Pakistan for in-
vestment and joint ven-

tures,” he stressed.

“The Russian Federa-

tion should import agri-
cultural products and

fruits from Pakistan,

while it could export
fertilisers and petro-

chemical products to

Pakistan,” he concluded.

28

His Excellency Mr. ALEXEY DEDOV, Mr. Yuri Kozlov, Head of AMBASSADOR MR. ALEXEY DEDOV
the Trade Representation of the Russian Federation, Mr. An- VISITED SAILKOT CCI
ton Chernov, First Secretary, Mr. Habib Ahmed, Honorary
Consul General, Dr. Shahid Hassan, coordinator, distin-
guished guests, and members of the Chamber.

Russian Ambassador H.E Mr. Alexey Dedov, visited Sialkot

Chamber of Commerce and Industry and appreciated the ef-

forts and pivotal role of Sialkot Chamber in the economic de-

velopment of the country. He said Russia and Pakistan are

having important economic relationships. Mansoor Ahmed , mutual cooperation.”

President SCCI warmly welcomed His Excellency Mr. ALEX- Mr. Habib Ahmed, Honorary consul to Russia in his speech
EY DEDOV, and presented a Documentary on industrial setup appreciated the dynamics of Sialkot, Sialkot Industry, and

and welfare work initiated by the business community of invited exporters of Sialkot to visit Russia, for B2B meetings
Sialkot. He told that export products of Sialkot are supplied to to make contacts with the Russian Business Community.
Omer Khalid, Mr. Adnan Sethi, Mr. Muhsin Gul, Mian Naeem
leading brands and buyers all over the world. Through export Javed and Dr. Aslam Darr applauded the detailed discussion
of these items the city earns approximately US $ 2 Billion an- on mutual interest. They presented proposal of SCCI to build

nually, “There is huge scope for quality products of Sialkot in Trade Center in Russia to create effective trad2e9 links, direct
Russia, which we need to, exploit to the maximum through flight, banking and logistic issues.

private sector should play role to boost bilateral trade:
H.E A. Dedov at FCCI

ucts.

The Russian
Ambassador

also assured

to provide a
list of Turk-

ish compa-

nies which

have been
banned for

exports to

Russia. He
also assured

The trade relations between Pakistan and Russia are grow- cooperation for the exchange of trade delegations and or-

ing satisfactorily at the government level and a huge invest- ganization of exhibitions in both countries.
ment of two billion dollars is indicative of this cooperation. Earlier, in his address of welcome Chaudhary Muhammad

However, the private sector of two countries should also Nawaz President Faisalabad Chamber of Commerce and

come forward to play its role in giving a quantum jump to Industry (FCCI) told that there are more than 5000 mem-

the bilateral trade, said Russian Federation Ambassador bers within the fold of this chamber. “They belong to all
Alexey y. Dedov. business sectors of the city including textile, pharmaceuti-

He was addressing a function organized by Faisalabad cal, confectionary, foundry, garments, chemical, ginning

Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FCCI), which was also spinning, dairy products, agricultural engineering, infor-
attended by leading industrialists, traders and exporters of mation technology services, furniture, decorative paints and

the city. packaging industry etc. He said that textile sector is the

He said that Russia started a number of energy projects mainstay of its economy and out of total textile exports of
while an agreement was also signed to lay gas pipe line from 13 billion dollars Faisalabad is contributing 6 billion dollars.

Karachi to Lahore and now the balance of trade is in favor of Similarly, Faisalabad is also ranked second in revenue gen-

Russia. However, the trade volume is still far less than their eration after Karachi, he added.

potentialities of the two countries and business communi- Chaudhary Muhammad Nawaz said that Faisalabad Cham-
ties of the two countries should take necessary measures to ber has been trying its optimum best to develop direct busi-

exploit this available potential. ness links with trade as well as business communities of the

He told that a ministerial level meeting will be held in Islam- other countries and in this connection as many as 6 trade
abad in November and December to remove the bottlenecks delegations have been sent to various international destina-

hampering our bi lateral trade. tions during last few years.

Regarding possibilities of MOUs, Preferential Trade Agree- Vice President Jameel Ahmed said that Pakistan and Russian
ments (PTA) and Free Trade Agreements (FTA), he said that Federation enjoy good economic relations since 1948. The

in this connection negotiations at the official level are re- trade volume between two countries in 2014 was US$ 412.5

quired. However, as regards cooperation between the pri- million. It shows that Pakistani exports were $187.6 mil-
vate sectors of the two countries, it needs reliable and credi- lion against Russian imports of US$ 224.9 million. Thus the

ble banking system. He told that government of Pakistan balance of trade was in favor of Russia.

was ready to open a branch of National Bank of Pakistan in He said that there are vast prospects of expansion of bilat-

Moscow which will have salutary impact on the promotion eral trade including joint ventures in Textiles, agro-based
of bilateral trade between the two countries. industry, livestock industry, leather goods, oil and gas, Infor-

Regarding sanctions clamped on Turkey by Russia, he said mation Technology and Tourism.

that it provides a unique opportunity to Pakistani exporters During question-answer session interested questions were
to fill up this gap by making arrangements with their Rus- raised while Chaudhary Muhammad Nawaz president FCCI

sian counterparts particularly for the export of textile prod- presented FCCI shield to Alexey y. Dedov Ambassador of the

Russian Federa-
tion.

30

Fauji Meat Ltd : Meeting with Rosselkhoznadzor

A working meeting took place in Moscow on August 17,
and was devoted to the discussion of cooperation be-
tween the Rosselkhoznadzor and Pakistani Veterinary
Competent Authorities. The representatives of the Em-
bassy of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan in the RF,
Business Council for Cooperation with the Islamic Re-
public of Pakistan within the RF Chamber
of Commerce and Pakistani Company «Fauji Meat
Limited» also took part in the consultations.

Habib Ahmed noted that Pakistan is interested
in effective bilateral cooperation and expressed his
intention to facilitate the establishment of import-
export operations beneficial for both sides. The Paki-
stani party informed about its interest to export high
quality halal meat products to Russia. The Rosselkhoz-
nadzor explained the authorization procedure

for successful import substitution and export opportunities

of animal product access to the Russian and EAEU markets for domestic producers. In this context bilateral market
suggesting close cooperation of the veterinary competent au- development of both countries and investing of Pakistani
thorities of exporting and importing countries. The Ros- capitals into Russian agriculture can become promising areas
selkhoznadzor also noted that agriculture in the Russian Fed- of the cooperation.

eration is actively developing now and that provides the basis

31 31

FAUJI MEAT participated in World Food Exhibition

in World Food Forum which highlighted current and future

Representatives of Fauji Meat Ltd (FML) led by
Lt. Gen ( R) Mr. Haroon Asalm, Chairman Fuji
Meet Ltd participated in World Food Exhibition
and Forum in Moscow.

Fauji Meat Limited was incorporated in 2013 as
a public limited company. It is a part of Fauji
Group, the largest conglomerate in Pakistan
with production line in Fertilizer, Cement,
Food, Power generation, Oil & Gas, LPG mar-
keting and distribution, Employment and Secu-
rity services.

FML has set up a state-of-the-art Halal abattoir
and meat processing facility near Port Bin Qasim
Karachi (Pakistan) with an estimated project

trends of Russian food market, which has recently under-
gone fundamental changes. Amidst the current economic
conditions, some of the key issues for food industry busi-
nesses include maintaining volumes of production, expand-
ing sales markets, and increasing products’ marketability.
All these issues are directly reliant on consumer demand,
which has fallen sharply. Considering the unfavourable eco-
nomic situation, the food embargo, and high competition
on the domestic food market for producers, suppliers and
retail chains, consumer demand has become a starting point

cost of 75 million USD. The halal meat industry in Russia is for building a development strategy for all market players.
growing rapidly. About 12% of all meat produced in the Each company is trying to find a route to the consumer and
country is now officially certified as halal and, by 2020, this is creating a development strategy. The event was aimed
figure could rise to 20%, as the largest agricultural holdings at senior managers from Russian and international compa-
plan to start production of halal poultry, beef or mutton. nies involved in producing, processing and supplying food
Fuji Meat Ltd Pakistan funds great scope and has planned products for the Russian market, as well as representatives
to enter in Russian markets. of national and regional authoritative bodies and retailers,
distributors, industry associations and the press.
Representative of Fuji Meat Ltd Pakistan also participated
32

TDAP Explores Russian Market: Report by Dr. Shahid Hasan

A delegation of The Trade Development Authority of Paki- in his address, highlighted the problems being faced by Pa-
stan (TDAP) with an aim to establish direct links between kistani business community including non-tariff barriers.
the business communities in Russia, led by Chief Executive He informed that delegation is visiting on special instruc-
SM Muneer visited Moscow and Kazan. Delegation found tions of Prime Minister of Pakistan and offered cooperation
out that Russian Federation, which is comprised of about in developing a strategy for enhancing trade relations. Paki-
85 regions and offering a huge market for Pakistani prod- stani products have huge potential in textile, leather, foot-
ucts besides enormous demand for food, and pharmaceuti- wear, rice and fruits and vegetables.
cal products. It was also highlighted that the demand for
Halal products in Muslim populated regions of Russia was In a meeting with Mr. I. Mikhametdonov, Vice Prime Minis-
also rising. Dr. Shahid Hasan, Chief Organizer Association of ter of Republic of Bashkortostan, Mr. Waheed Ahmed in-
Pakistani Graduates from Russia and CIS also participated formed that Pakistan has exported 3500 containers of Man-
in the delegation. darins and oranges. Pakistan is one of the leading exporters
Pakistan delegation met with Mr. Denis Muntrov, Minister of potatoes to Russia as well. Mr. I. Mikhametdonov, Vice
of Industry and Trade of Russia, Mr. I. Mikhametdonov, Vice Prime Minister of Republic of Bashkortostan assured all
Prime Minister of Republic of Bashkortostan along with kind of assistance to Pakistani businessmen.
Director International Development Corporation of Repub-
lic of Bashkortostan in the office of International Develop- Mr. Ata Munim Shahid, Deputy Head of Pakistan mission in
ment Corporation. Russia, Mr Waheed Ahmed, Chairman Fruits and Vegetables
Mr. Denis Muntrov, Minister of Industry and Trade of Rus- Association and Mr. Farooq Afzal Chairman FPCCI Commit-
sia was requested in meeting by Mr. Farooq Afzal, Chair- tee on Russia and Mr. Muhammad Irfan, Director Eu-
man Pak Russia Business to organize Road Show of MC21 rope, TDAP were also present in meeting.
and Sukhoee 100 planes in Pakistan and also convertibility
of Russian Ruble with Pakistani rupee. Mr. Denis Muntrov, Chairman of FPCCI Standing Committee on Islamic Banking
briefed deligation about current economic prospects be- & Takaful Mr. Mehmood Arshad, Founder of TAWUN, affili-
tween Russian federation and Pakistan and said that Rus- ated with Pak-Qatar Group in Pakistan, during the visit, a
sia was willing to sell helicopters, commercial planes MC21 Memorandum of Understanding between Islamic Business
and Sakhoee 100 super jet to Pakistan. He further told that And Finance Development Fund and TAWUN, was
these planes are much fuel more fuel efficient than Air-bus signed. Mr. Linar Yakupov, President of IBFD Fund at the
and Boeing and are economical as well. He also told that occasion stated that he was sure that together with TAWUN
LNG pipeline project by Russia in Pakistan is a great break- IBFD Fund will be able to provide all necessary support for
through in diplomatic and economic relationship. Russian financial institutions to launch Shariah-compliant
products and services attract new clients and explore new
Ambassador of Pakistan to Russia H.E. Qazi Khalil Ullah also markets, get additional funding and investments from OIC
attended the meeting. Head of delegation Mr. SM Muneer, countries.

33 33
33

RFCCI- Welcomed TDAP Delegation

The Chamber of Commerce supported the proposal of the comprised of representatives of agricultural unit, including

Pakistani business delegation, of the need to develop bilat- producers and exporters of fruits and vegetables, producers
eral trade and economic relations, in particular by simplify- of sports clothing and household goods, dental equipment .

ing the visa regime and establishing a sound banking sys- He said that the meeting with the head of the Industry and

tem. This will help develop new export and investment pro- Trade Minister Denis Manturov was productive and ex-
jects between the two countries. This was stated by Advisor pressed hope that the joint turnover now will grow.

to the President of the Russian Chamber of Commerce The head of the Pakistani delegation assured that the return

George Petrov in the Russian-Pakistani business forum, held visit of the Minister Manturova in September this year in the

in the House, at Moscow capital of Pakistan will only accelerate the implementation
He noted that currently Russia has consistently pursued a of joint business projects. In particular, we are talking about

policy of providing comprehensive assistance to Pakistan. RF creating a joint Russian-Pakistani businesses, exhibitions (in

CCI considers the relations between Russia and Pakistan as particular, in the near future in Moscow) (expressed by Rus-
friendly. In recent years the two countries built a construc- sian company "Aeroflot" prior consent), the organization of

tive dialogue at the political level in both bilateral and multi- direct flights between the two countries. With regard to the

lateral formats, said Georgi Petrov. simplification of the visa regime, the head of the Industry
Advisor to the President of the Russian Chamber of Com- and Trade Ministry has promised to Pakistani counterparts

merce said that the relations through the Russian and Paki- to involve the Russian Foreign Ministry and ensure the issu-

stani business community have intensified after a visit to ance of visas to Pakistani businessmen for one year (instead

Russia in May 2011, the President of Pakistan and the start of the current seven days).
of the Russian-Pakistani Intergovernmental Commission In conclusion, Georgi Petrov expressed hope that Pakistan

(IGC first meeting was held in September 2010 in Moscow, will soon become a full member of the Shanghai Cooperation

the second. - in Islamabad in September 2012.). Organization (SCO) and begin to work with Russia in the
However, Georgy Petrov noted that economic activity in gen- framework of the integration of the organization.

eral between Russia and Pakistan was negligible. In 2015, The roundtable conference was attended by Head of Paki-

bilateral trade turnover decreased by 13 percent compared stan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation
to 2014 and totaled US $ 396 million.. Russian exports to Alexei Idashkin, consultant of the Ministry of Economic De-

Pakistan amounted to US $ 98 million (a decrease of 33.5 velopment Salavat Aklan, Head of Asia and the Americas,

percent), while imports from Pakistan -. US $ 298 million Ministry of Industry and Trade Irina Smygalina Act-

(decrease of 4 per cent).. However, in January-March 2016 ing Chairman of the Board of ANO "Business Council for Co-
there was 3 per cent increase in turnover compared to the operation with Pakistan," Sergei Vasiliev, business circles of

same period of 2015. Russia and Pakistan. After the plenary part of the event,

According to Georgy Petrov, the House, in the face of the meetings were held between the representatives of the com-
Russian-Pakistani Business Council (running since 2011) panies in b2b format. Source: RF CCI press service, T. Abdul-

was ready to render all possible assistance to the current layev

initiative of the delegation of Paki-
stan. However, he noted, bilateral contacts

with Pakistan on the lines of the RF CCI is

not of a regular nature (RF CCI partner
organization in Pakistan is the Federation

of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce

(FPTPP), with which an agreement on co-

operation was signed in 1999.).
Georgi Petrov stressed, promising areas of

cooperation between the Russian Chamber

of Commerce in the exchange of business
information, participation in fairs and exhi-

bitions, as well as cooperation between

regions, including investment promotion.
In turn, Minister-head of Pakistan's Trade

Development Authority of Muhammad

Sheikh Munir said that the composition of

the present Pakistani delegation in Russia

34

6th Azerbaijan-Pakistan intergovernmental commission

6th meeting of Azer- eign affairs, fi-

baijan-Pakistan in- nance, science
tergovernmental and technology,

commission was defense produc-

held in Islama- tion, trade, cul-

bad. From Azerbai- ture and senior
jani side, the de- officials led by

fense industry, tele- Co-Chairman,

communications Federal Petrole-
and high technolo- um and Natural

gy, foreign affairs, Resources Mr.

economy, culture and tourism, education, agriculture, edu- Shahid Abbasi khakan Abbasi.
cation ministries, as well as representatives of the State Oil The head of the Azerbaijani delegation to the 6th session of

Company and the Central Bank of the Republic. The dele- the Commission Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and

gation was led by the co-Chairman of Commission and the the minister was received by President Mamnoon Hussein.

Minister for Defense Industry Mr. Yavar Jamalov. Both countries signed protocol of the Azerbaijan-Pakistan
Pakistan delegation in commission was comprised upon bilateral economic, scientific, cultural, tourism and commu-

representatives of ministries oil and natural resources, for- nication.

Ambassador Ali Alizadeh, presented
Credentials to the President of
Pakistan.

At the meeting held after the ceremony of presentation
of credentials to the President of the Islamic Republic of
Pakistan, Ambassador Ali Alizadeh ambassador to Paki-
stan said “it’s my honor to represent Azerbaijan in Paki-
stan.” He conveyed greetings of President of Azerbaijan
with great importance to relations with Pakistan, a
friendly and fraternal country for Azerbaijan. The devel-
opment of relations between the two countries at the
highest level, to support each other in international af-
fairs, the two countries, noting that the development of
these relations and stressed the special role of the Presi-
dents of Azerbaijan.

Ambassador of Azerbaijan, met with

Newly appointed, Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbai-
jan, H.E. Ali Alizadeh, was invited by the Federal Minis-
ter Ishaq Dar, during the meeting, the two countries sup-
port each other on a regular basis, the current situation of
Kashmir and Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, the leaders of
the two countries play an important role in the develop-
ment of relations between Azerbaijan and Pakistan, the
Heydar Aliyev Foundation in Pakistan, implementation of
various humanitarian and social projects planned to be
implemented in the future of high-level trips started talk-
ing about the financial background of such a warm and
friendly relations, stressed the importance of enhancing
economic and trade ties.

35

Pakistan-Russia agreed Ambassador of Turkmenistan met
to modernize the Speaker National Assembly

Jamshoro Power Plant While speaking to Ambassador of Turenistan Mr. Atadjan
Movlamov, the Speaker remarked that Turkmenistan held a
Russia and unique importance in Pakistan’s strategic calculations for
Pakistan regional cooperation. He highlighted that Pak-Turkmenistan
have agreed relations were grounded in shared perspective on regional
to start ne- challenges and stronger cultural affinities and urged the
gotiations need for taking this relation to a new height. He outlined
on coopera- that TAPI pipeline was not just an energy pipeline but a
tion in the milestone in forging greater integration between South and
moderniza- Central Asian nations. He remarked that Pakistan confident-
tion of ly counted on Turkmenistan’s cooperation for restraining
Jamshoro Pakistan’s energy dip.Mr. Atadjan Movlamov highly appreci-
Power ated Pakistan’s renewed shift in policy to focus on Central
Plant, in Asia and its endeavors for facilitating infrastructural connec-
Pakistan's Sindh province, reported the Minis- tivity. He reaffirmed his commitment for expanding trade
try of Water and Energy of Pakistan. The agree- and cultural relations with Pakistan and urged the need for
ment was reached at the talks between Paki- greater exchanges of Parliamentary delegations. He further
stani Deputy Minister Mohammad Yunus Daghi added that Turkmenistan aspired to deepen people to people
and his Russian counterpart Yuri Sentyurin, contacts with Pakistan for strengthening bilateral relations
which took place in Islamabad.
"This is the most cost-effective project, which
could be invested by Russia. The project will be
the replacement of inefficient equipment with
more powerful turbines ", - quotes the words of
the local press Daghi. In turn, Senturin said that
the Russian side "burning desire" to participate
in the project of modernization of the Jamshoro
Power Plant and "exploring ways to finance it."
"Cooperation between the two countries is
deepening by the day, and under favorable con-
ditions, domestic investors will be very much
interested to explore the possibilities of the
energy sector in Pakistan," - he added.
In addition, Daghi also invited Russia to partici-
pate actively in the project CASA-1000 (Central
Asia - South Asia), which provides for the gen-
eration of electricity in Kyrgyzstan and Tajiki-
stan and its further transportation to Afghani-
stan and Pakistan.
"Work on the project CASA-1000 has already
begun. Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan will supply
electricity with hydroelectric power plant in
Pakistan in the summer months, from May to
October. However, from October to April, the
power line will be available for electricity sup-
plies from Russia ", - said Daghi. Source: RIA

36

Kashmir Conflict: Russia Can Play a Constructive Role
President Masood Khan

Association of Pakistani
Graduate from Russia and
CIS countries were invited
to participate at Breakfast
with Jang Group to attend
the discussion with Azad
Jammu and Kashmir
President Masood Khan.
Mr. Khan said that Kash-
miris are seeking UN-
mandated right to self-
determination. He viewed
Russia, China and other
countries can play a con-
structive role to resolve
conflict in South Asia. Addressing theme “ Kashmir is- Hamdani attended this event.
sue; challenges, implications and solutions”,. Repre-
sentative of Association of Pakistan Graduates from
Russia and CIS, Dr. Shahid Hasan and Ashique

Pakistan invites Russia to join CASA-1000

Pakistan invited Russia to join the Central Asia-South Asia ing held here. Both the sides agreed to enter into negotia-
(Casa-1000) project for non-hydel part as the room exist- tions for 600MW gas fired power plant at Jamshoro on

ed for transmission of electricity from October to May Russian funding, said a press release issued here.n High-

when the hydel generation remained low in the central lighting the importance of CASA-1000 project, the secre-
Asian states. Secretary Ministry of Water and Power Mu- tary said that work had already been started on the pro-

hammad Younus Dagha extended the invitation to Rus- ject.

sian Deputy Minister for Energy Yuri Sentyurin in a meet- 37

Russian Consul General address Karachi Reception on

IoBM Conference “The State of Diplomat's Day

PAKISTAN’S ECONOMY: Issues and The Consulate Gen-
eral of the Russian
Challenges in the 21st Century”

Federation in Kara-
International Conference on “The State of PAKI- chi gave a Reception
STAN’S ECONOMY: Issues and Challenges in the on the occasion of
21st Century” began at the Institute of Business the Diplomat’s Day.
Management (IoBM) in Karachi. The Consul Gen- A special issue of the
eral of the Russian Federation in Karachi Mr. Oleg “Ambassador” maga-
N. Avdeev, the guest of honour at the Inaugural ses- zine dedicated to the

Diplomat’s Day was also published on
the occasion.

The Chief Guest of the Reception was
Hon’ble Mr. Agha Siraj Durrani,
Speaker of the Provincial Assembly of
Sindh. The function was also attended
by Hon’ble Mr. Nisar Ahmed Khuhro,
Senior Minister, Government of Sindh,
members of the Consular corps of Ka-
rachi, businessmen, cultural and media

sion, addressed the participants of the conference.

Ambassador (r) Syed Hasan Javed, a leading expert

in international relations; Khalid Rahman, Direc-

tor General, Institute of Policy Studies; Mr. Talib

Syed Karim, Rector & Executive Director, Institute

of Business Managemen; Dr. Shahida Wizarat,

Dean, Director Research, Chief Editor PBR & HoD personalities.
Economic Department, IoBM; Dr. Natalia Za-
maraeva, Senior Researcher, Institute of Oriental Mr. Oleg N. Avdeev addressed the guests of the Re-
Studies, Russian Academy of Sciences and other ception. Also speaking on the occasion Hon’ble Mr.
noted Pakistani economists and public personali- Agha Siraj Durrani, Speaker of the Provincial As-
sembly, highly appreciated Russia-Pakistan cooper-
ties took part in the Conference, ation in various spheres.

Russian School Karachi Celebrated –
The Day of Knowledge

38 38

Senator Sehar Kamran at
SCO Forum Sochi: Pro-
spects of Cooperation

The international forum themed "On the sec- Further Develop-
ond track. Role of civil society and public di- ment And Ex-
plomacy in the further development and ex- pansion Of The
pansion of the Shanghai Cooperation Organi- SCO’ at Sochi.
zation" held in Tuesday in Russia's Black Sea city, Sochi. The purpose of
Senator Sehar Kamran (TI) had the the forum, was
privilege to speak at the two-day in- exchange of
ternational agenda forum titled ‘On views of experts
the Second Track, the Role of Civil and scientific
Society and Public Diplomacy in the community of
Russia, China,
India, Pakistan,
Central Asia and
other countries
on the develop-
ment of the
Shanghai Coop-
eration Organiza-
tion to strength-
en regional secu-
rity and solve
complex social
and economic
problems. Within two days about 300 representatives of
SCO member-
states discussed
the prospects of
their activities'
expansion amid
the changing
political and
economic situa-
tion in the
world. The
event was held
under the aus-
pices of the
Public Chamber
of the Russian
Federation and
with the sup-
port of the Rus-
sian Foreign
Ministry.

39

VIPUSKNIK Registration FORM

Dear Members Association of Pakistan Graduates from Russia & CIS Countries
Quarterly Journal “Vipusknik” is volunteer effort of Editorial Board.
We invite each and every member of Association of Pakistan Graduates from Russia & CIS Countries to share
financial and editorial obligations to ensure quarterly printing, publishing and distribution of “Vipusknik”.
Note:- Please send your contact detail, financial and editorial commitments at following address:-
Please fill and send on following address
Postal Address:
Pakistan, Rawalpindi
148 A, Off Peshawar Road, Westridge 1
Scan copied may send by email: drhasan47@gmail.com Or
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Previous editions of Vipusknik can be downloaded from following link

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Name Photo
Country Russia/ CIS/ USSR (Name) _________________________________
Profession
Date of Birth 40
Address
Tel/ Mob No
Email
Name of University
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Year of Joining
Faculty
Sign

Scope of Kazakhstan Pakistan PTDC: Promotion of Pakistan,
Agriculture Cooperation: Am- Uzbekistan tourism
bassador H.E. Bakhitbek Sha-
barbayev met with Minster of The Managing Director Pakistan Tourism Development
Food security & Research Corporation (PTDC) Chaudhry Abdul Ghafoor Khan has
said that there is an immense potential for joint promo-
Federal Minister for National Food security & Research, tion of tourism between Uzbekistan and Pakistan being
Mr. Sikander Hayat Khan Boson had a brief meeting with the sharers of many common cultural values of brother-
the Ambassador of Kazakhstan Mr. Bakhitbek Shabarba- hood.
yev on 13th April at Minister’s office. In the meeting pro- In a meeting with Ambassador of Uzbekistan in Pakistan Fur-
spects about the OIC Ministers’ conference in Astana, qat A. Sidikov in Islamabad on Wednesday, that the MD PTDC
were discussed, along with the Agriculture Ministers’ said that the brotherly relations between Pakistan and Uz-
conference there would be first session of General As- bekistan can be further enhanced by promoting each other’s
sembly of the Islamic Organization for Food Security tourism destinations among nationals of both the countries.
(IOFS). The Federal Minister in his meeting with the Ka- Abdul Ghafoor Khan said that PTDC and Uzbekistan Tourism
zak Ambassador discussed the prospects of the coming Authority may enter in to a Memorandum of Understanding,
conference in which the Minister will attend the number in which, the articles for possible areas of joint tourism pro-
of side meetings as well, as there are participants from motion will be added. He said that being one of the most
30 other states at the forum. Although Pakistan has not blessed tourism destinations of the World, Pakistan can truly
joined the IOFS, but Kazakhstan is pursuing the matter be a most favourite destination for Uzbek nationals.
and hence invited Pakistan to attend the first session. The Uzbek envoy said that the prominent shrines of Imam Al
Minister in his meeting expressed hope that relations -Bokhari and Hojja Daniyar, Mausoleums of At-Tirmizi and
between the two countries would strengthen and he At-Muturidi attract thousands of Muslims from around the
would meet with the Kazakhstan’s Agriculture Minister world. He said that Uzbekistan has won many awards in
and discuss matters of mutual importance. It is perti- sports and they are also promoting sports tourism.
nent to mention that Pakistan has supported the estab- Furqat A. Sidikov said that entering in to Memorandum of
lishment of IOFS. In the said meeting it was resolved by Understanding (MoU) on tourism cooperation will definitely
the both sides that the important decisions would be increase tourist flow between the two brotherly countries.
taken and the upcoming OIC conference would not only He said that since its independence in 1991, Uzbekistan has
be a powerful forum for Pakistan but will bring the two developed its tourist industry within a span of only five
countries closer. The Minister thanked the government years.
of Kazakhstan for extending the invitation to participate The ambassador invited Managing Director PTDC to visit
in the coming events. Uzbekistan and experience the development and environ-
ment maintained by Uzbekistan.

Turkmenistan Media Forum :
Global Sustainable Transport Conference

A Media Forum was held in the capital city of and the Pacific (ESCAP), the United Nations Eco-
Turkmenistan ahead of the first-ever Global Sus- nomic Commission for Europe (UNECE), the In-
tainable Transport Conference, which is to be ternational Road Transport Union (IRU), the In-
held in Ashgabat in the coming November. The ternational Maritime Organization (IMO) and the
forum is attended by representatives of 10 inter- Organization for Cooperation between Railways
national organizations, as well as journalists and (OSJD). The Media Forum participants exchanged
reporters representing more than 65 mass media views on a number of current issues relating to
outlets from some 30 countries.As part of the establishment of the modern legal framework for
first session, the forum participants listened to cooperation in the transport sector, as well as ac-
the reports by representatives of the United Na- tivities on the expansion of the transport corri-
tions Economic and Social Commission for Asia dors infrastructure.

41 41

42

Global Ring Economic Forum (GREF) is a policy think
tank formed by a group of leading businessmen, ex-civil
and military officials and scholars to work on national
strategic economic issues. GREF main direction of activi-
ties is to provide advisory and consultative services to Security Advisor to Prime Minster of Pakistan Air Marshal
governments for making policy framework on related Asad Lodhi HI(M); Vice Chief of Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force,
issues and lobbying for Pakistan in member countries. H.E Mr. Mehdi Honardoost, Ambassador of Islamic Republic
Initially, GREF main focus was linking Pakistan with China, of Iran; Ambassador of Russian Federation, H.E Mr. Alexey Y.
Iran, Russia and Turkey which will enhance to Afghanistan, Dedov, H.E. Mr. Yu Boren; Consul General of People Republic
and CIS countries. GREF is making effort to identify, promote of China, H.E. Mr. Muhammad Hussain Bani Asadi; Consul
and facilitate in developing strategic economic interests of General of I.R Iran, H.E Mr. Sha Zukuan Former Ambassador,
these countries, which will help towards achieving stability and President Pak China Friendship Association China.
and security of the region. GREF delegations met and dis- GREF has established academic and research collaborations
cussed issues of their interest with several high level digni- with Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI), Area
ties including Mr. Ayaz Sadiq, Speaker of National Assembly, Study Centre (Russia, China and Central Asia), University of
Prof. Mr. Ahsan Iqbal; Federal Minister for Planning, Develop- Peshawar and GTTN, National University of Sciences and
ment and Reform, Lt. Gen. (R) Nasser Khan Janjua; National Technology (NUST).

Ashique Hamdani’s Article Published in
Urdu Daily “Express”

An analytical article on CPEC/OBOR project “Chinese vision of Glob-
alization” written by Mr. Ashique Hamdani , member Editorial Board
of Vipusknik has been published in Urdu daily newspaper “ Express”
in Sunday edition, on 4th September 2016. Article covers role of Com-
munist Party of China, evolution of Chines state and society and
emerging trends in getting a stronger role in global politics. This arti-
cle can be downloaded from website by clicking following link:-
https://www.scribd.com/document/328741123/One-Belt-One-Road-Chinese-Vision-of-Globalisation

43

PAKISTAN - UZBEKISTAN STAND FOR CORDIAL CO- sured that on behalf of
OPERATION AMBASSADOR FURQAT SIDIQOB the Embassy His Excel-
lency Ambassador would

His Excellency Mr. Furqat
Sidiqov, Ambassador of the Re-
public of Uzbekistan to Paki-

stan , Mr. Zafarbek AKHMEDOV,
DHM/ First Secretary of Uzbeki-
stan Embassy, Mr. Muzaffar Tu-
raev, Attache of the Uzbekistan

Embassy and Mr. Hamid
Mehmood, Representative of
Uzbekistan Airways in Pakistan
visited SCCI.

Mr. Muhammad Sarfraz
Butt, Acting President, Sialkot

Chamber of Commerce and In- try his level best to enhance the economic coopera-
dustry (SCCI) warmly welcomed the guests. tion and interaction between the business commu-

His Excellency Mr. Furqat Sidiqov, said that relation nities of both countries which would hopefully re-
between Pakistan and Uzbekistan are always sult to increase turnover of bilateral trade of two
marked by cordial, warmth and close cooperation in countries. Mian Muhammad Riaz, Mr. Mohsan
many fields and the two countries are sharing simi- Gul,Ch. Muhammad Yousaf, Mr. Adnan Sethi, Syed
lar views on major regional and International issues Ahtesham Gilani, Vice President SCCI, and Mr. Umer
and collaborate closely with each and others he as- Khalid participated in question answer session

Tajikistan Delegation
visited Tomb of
Allama Iqbal

Delegation from Tajikistan
visited the mausoleum of Dr
Allama Muhammad Iqbal, to
offer prayers and to pay, re-
spect to this great personality

of Pakistan.
The Tomb of Allama Muhammad Iqbal is a
simple but impressive structure located in both the grand structures (the Mosque and
Iqbal Park in Lahore, Pakistan. Iqbal Park is the Fort) face each other.

one of the largest urban parks in Pakistan
in the Hazuri Bagh lawn between the Bad-
shahi Mosque and the Lahore Fort where

44

RUSSIAN CENTRE FOR SCIENCE & CULTURE—RCSC
(FRIENDSHIP HOUSE') Karachi

International Youth Day Celebrated

International tional activities, which make them
Youth Day was free from terrorism, criminal, drugs
etc.
celebrated in

the RCSC in
Karachi on

20th August.

Minister for

Social Welfare
Sindh Ms.

Shamim Mum-

taz was the
Chief-guest of the program. In their

speeches, the minister and RCSC

representatives underlined the sig-
nificance of Pakistani young people

in social, cultural, sport and educa-

Expat Family Excursion of Karachi Museums Russian Navy day
Celebrated in

The Russian Centre of Sci- Karachi
ence and Culture, with the
help of the Consulate Gen- Navy Day of Russia was celebrat-
eral of the Russian Federa- ed at Russian Center for Science
tion in Karachi, organized a and Culture Friendship House.
museum tour for children of APGRCIS also participated. It was
compatriots residing in Pa- addressed by Mr. Yuri Zozulya;

kistan with visits to the Na- Director FH, Madam Ekterina
tional Museum of Pakistan, and Dr. Zahid Hasan,
the house-museum of Mu-
hammad Ali Jinnah
and "Mohatta Palace".
The event was attended by 18 children Muhammad Ali Jinnah the Children of
and their parents. During the vis- Russian compatriot were told about
it, children were told about the history of life and struggle of the founder of Paki-
Pakistan, the inhabitants of the land; peo- stan about the history of this museum.
ple, arts, crafts and their traditions. At the The exhibition of sculptures left from co-
house-museum of the father of the nation lonial times was shown to them.

45

RCSC celebrated Independence Day of

Pakistan

Association of Pakistani Graduates from Russia & CIS(APGRCIS) with
the collaboration of the Russian Center of Science and Culture orga-
nized a reception at the premises of the Friendship House to celebrate
the Independence Day of Pakistan on 13th August 2016. Dr. Zahid Ha-
san- Chairman APGRCIS has conducted the official part of the event
and the speeches made by Mr. Andrey Fedorov- Acting Consul General
of the Russian Consulate in Karachi, Professor Dr. Touseef Ahmed
Khan- Juornalist and Madam Ekterina of the Russian Center of Science
and Culture. Many graduates and other guests has participated in at
the Reception. Pictures of the events are below.

Russian Film Show in Karachi

The Rus- Visit to Moscow - Pakistan Russia Business Forum hosted dinner in
sian Cul- honour of Miss Natalia -Trainer from Russia along
with Dr IMRAN of JOFA Group at Creek Club.
tural Cen- A Visual Presentation
tre host-

ed a talk

“Visit to

Moscow - A

Visual Presentation” with writer Rumana Husain who was invited to

Moscow to present a paper on the theme of cultural diversity at the Sec-

ond Silk Road Cultural Forum. Rumana Husain is the author of a coffee-

table book: ‘Karachiwala - a subcontinent within a city’ (2010) that docu-

ments Karachi's diverse communities. She has also authored another

book, ‘Street Smart – professionals on the street’ Rumana has written and

illustrated over 60 children’s books and developed numerous teachers’

manuals for several publishers including the Oxford University Press,

Danesh Publications, ERDC, Kathalya Publications (Nepal), Nami Chil-

dren’s Books (South Korea), Butterfly Works (The Netherlands), Pratham

Books (India, and the Bookgroup, which she co-founded in Karachi in

1988 and was its Director from 1996 until 2000.

46

News& Views: Pakistani Expat in Russia and CIS :
Report By Khamdani Yesteak

India-Pakistan exhibition "Fairy East ." , supported by the tion. The Executive Director of the Russian Business Coun-
municipal enterprise of Pskov " North-West center of soci- cil for Cooperation with Pakistan Zahid Khan thanked the
ology and marketing ", held in Pskov at Ice . Welcoming the Pskov authorities for the opportunity to hold a trade fair in

participants, Deputy Mayor of Pskov Sergey

Gavrilov the regional cen-

noted ter, " We are very

that this expensive busi-
is an op- ness and friendly

portunity contacts with

to see the culture of the Russia. In Pskov,
east, without leaving we once again

the city. ”Your Fair greeted warmly

brought in gloomy ink and cordially. "

Pskov October and fla- With words of
vors of distant south- welcome and

ern countries. Pskov good wishes of

have become accus- the trade to the
tomed to your products Indian and Paki-

and foodstuffs, in great stani guests ad-

demand among the dressed the Pskov
population use spices City Duma deputy

and tea. But most im- Valery Foresters, Head of Consumer Market and Services

portantly, that the peoples of our countries are finding Administration of the city of Pskov Andrei Sukmanov, Di-

common ground, continuing the friendship and coopera- rector of MP " North-West center of sociology and market-
tion ", - said Sergey Gavrilov and thanked the Indian and ing ". 47

Pakistani representatives for the organization of the exhibi-

Community meeting in Moscow

Pakistan Student s Assocation
Moscow celebrated Pakistan Day

Pakistan Youth Community Peters-
burg Russia Hosted Invest in Paki-
stan Conference in Sankt Petersburg

48

obituary

Shirin Banu Metil Arif Ali Khan

APGRCIS express its solidarity with Arif Ali Khan,
Soviet/ Russian Alumni Association Soviet era Paki-
of Bangladesh and our deepest con- stan graduate
dolence to bereaved family of Shirin from PFUR,
Banu Metil, a Soviet Alumni, who died in Karachi.
has died in Bangladesh. He was born
and raised in
Karachi. He
was very active during his student’s
life in Moscow and graduated in Rus-
sian Literature and Philology. Asso-
ciation of Pakistan Graduates from
Russia and CIS countries participat-
ed in his funeral. It was very sad and
painful sentimental moment for his
friends and fellows, as he was being
laid to rest. Members of APGR&CIS
were remembering his wonderful
and gentle soul, which will forever
remain in our hearts, stayed after funeral for a long time and remembered
Arif as a respectable human being and sincere friend.

Abdul Sattar Edhi remembered in Russia

Lenin Peace Prize honored and legendary Pakistani philan- operations have been run by the

thropist Abdul Sattar Edhi, who devoted his life for the help- Foundation in the countries of
less and poor community, died at the age of 88 at a Karachi Africa, Middle East, US, and East-

Hospital. He was known as living saint for his noble cause and ern Europe etc., to help make

humanist values. living conditions better for peo-
He was founder of Edhi Foundation which provides food, shel- ple there.

ters, and rehabilitation centres all across Pakistan and other His death was heard sadly in

countries. Edhi foundation runs 330 welfare centres in Paki- Russia, Embassy of Pakistan and

stan, both in urban and rural areas to help mentally ill individ- local office of Pakistani News
uals and drug addicts. Since its beginning, the foundation has channel Such TV organised con-

rescued more than 50,000 orphans, and 20,000 abundant in- dolence events in Moscow, which

fants, while it has trained more than 40,000 nurses. Moreover, was largely attended by Russian
it also helps people to settle in their lives after being affected and foreigners

by natural disasters such as floods and droughts. Several relief

49

Aslam Azhar, a leading broad- Islam Abdugani- Islam Abduganiyevich
caster and a progressive ideo- yevich Karimov
logue, passed away at the age of was the first presi- Karimov
83. Having a great experience in
broadcasting and theatre, he dent of Uzbekistan,
was offered with a pilot project
of three months at Radio Paki- earlier he was the
stan in 1964. As result of the President of the Uzbek Soviet Socialist Republic was the

last First Secretary of the Communist Party of Uzbekistan.

He was fonder of People's Democratic Party of Uzbeki-

stan (PDP). He served his nation, country and people with
economic growth, peace stability and development. Asso-
endless efforts of Azhar and his

team, the project turned out to ciation of Pakistani Graduates from Russia & CIS coun-
be a great success. tries express it deep feeling with people of Uzbekistan to
bare this pain.
With an intelligent mind and

excellent abilities, this Pakistani Mairaj Muhammad Khan
writer quickly gathered a team of writers, cameramen,

artists and designers and developed stations at Lahore,

Aslam Azhar

Karachi and Quetta for the purpose of bringing some quali- Mairaj Muhammad Khan has left a legacy of principled,
ty programs. Other initiatives for which he must be credit- progressive struggle. He became prominent in 1968
ed include the 1982-83 award ceremony of PTV, in 1970 against the Ayub regime as a student leader and then he
marathon transmission of elections, Music 89 as well as the played a critical role in the formation of the PPP. Later
Lahore Islamic Summit. Other famous works include his role in the MRD against the Zia dictatorship was
Roobroo which was hosted by Mohsin Sherazi and Khuda amongst the most prominent ones. His last decades
ki Basti. were spent in political disillusionment. He became a
member of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf before leaving
it in 2003 over political differences. He struggled for
democracy and the rights of workers throughout his
political life. Over his life, he spent over 13 years in jail
for resisting military dictatorships and heavy-handed
state rule. He suffered various injuries after numerous
beatings and torture. In the face of innumerable suffer-
ing, Mairaj remained committed to his ideals and re-
fused to compromise to those in power. In his death, we
have lost a man who was committed to democracy, the
working class and oppressed nationalities. His life is a
lesson to those who still desire a more progressive Paki-
stan.

50