VIPUSKNIK 2-2018

VIPUSKNIK

1948
2018

70th Anniversary of Pakistan Russia Diplomatic Relations

02

Pak Uzbek Trade Centre Met with Uzbekistan Chamber of
Commerce and Industry

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H.E. Igor Vladimirovich facilities, supplied agricultural rity issues and counterterrorism and
Morgulov machinery. The Karachi Steel Mills held negotiations with the leadership
was constructed with the help of the of Pakistan.
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of USSR at the beginning of the 1980s. It We maintain dialogue with our Paki-
the Russian Federation still remains the largest industrial stani partners on a wide range of
plant in Pakistan and is rightly a issues of regional and international
Russia-Pakistan: symbol of our friendship. In 1980 the agenda through relevant consultative
new vistas of Guddu Thermal Power Plant was put mechanisms between the Foreign
cooperation into operation. Constructed with the Ministries. Among these issues are:
participation of Soviet specialists it counterterrorism, strategic stability,
Commemorating was at that time the largest thermal situation in Afghanistan and Central
the 70th power station in the Islamic Republic Asia. There is an active interaction
of Pakistan. between other ministries and agencies
Anniversary of In December 1991 Pakistan was one of of both countries.
bilateral relations the first to recognize the Russian The potential of our partnership was
Federation as the legal successor of significantly advanced since Islam-
On 1st of May the Russian Federation the Soviet Union. Since the early abad became a full-fledged member of
and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan 2000s the bilateral relations have the Shanghai cooperation organiza-
celebrate a significant date: 70 years been developing dynamically in an tion in June 2017. We are glad that
ago diplomatic relations between our incremental manner. Russia regards Pakistan is actively engaging in the
States were established on that day. Pakistan as a promising partner, with practical work of the Organisation. We
Over the past decades bilateral ties whom we evolve a long-term multi count upon support by Islamabad of
have experienced ups and downs. sectoral cooperation including for the the plans to create a universal Centre
Certain events in Afghanistan at the strengthening of stability in the region on countering new challenges and
end of 1970s-1980s have left a nega- of South Asia and beyond. What is threats on the basis of SCO Regional
tive mark on them. However, even particularly important the relations Anti-Terrorist Structure. This will
during the most difficult times our between Russia and Pakistan have enable Member States to improve
country provided economic assistance their own value that is not subject to coordination of professional efforts
to Pakistan, promoted the develop- changes of the situation on the inter- and to raise efficiency of use of
ment of oil and gas industry of Paki- national arena. relevant resources.
stan and construction of its energy In recent years, bilateral political Our States cooperate on multilateral
dialogue has been intensified. In 2017 platforms, first of all in the UN and its
two meetings between the leaders specialised agencies. Moscow and
were held – on the sidelines of the Islamabad are united by the aspiration
summit of the Shanghai Cooperation for a multi-polar world order, respect
Organization (SCO) in Astana in June for international law, denial of
and on the sidelines of the meeting of attempts of interference in domestic
the Council of Heads of SCO member affairs of sovereign States including
States in Sochi. those under humanitarian pretext. We
These summits proved that the both value the support that Pakistan gives
sides are mutually interested in to such Russian priorities in the UN as
enhancing multidimensional coopera- international information security,
tion. Practical steps on its develop- transparency and confidence-building
ment were discussed last February measures in outer space and combat
during a working visit to Moscow of against glorification of Nazism.
the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Paki- We stand for deepening the coordina-
stan H.E. Khawaja Muhammad Asif. tion of efforts of the international
Inter-parliamentary contacts are an community on the Afghan track. Dete-
important element of interaction riorating security situation in Afghani-
between Russia and Pakistan. A land- stan, the rise of the terrorist and drugs
mark event was the visit of H.E. threats coming from this country
Vyacheslav V. Volodin, Chairman of directly affect both Russia and Paki-
the State Duma of the Russian Federa- stan. Our countries hold the same
tion, during which he participated in view that Afghanistan should become
the Conference of the Heads of parlia- a peaceful state, free of terrorism and
ments of Russia, Pakistan, China, drug-related crime.
Afghanistan, Iran and Turkey on secu-

70th Anniversary of Pakistan Russia Diplomatic Relations

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In this context, as the first priority task antinarcotics sphere. Both the Minis- Iran-Pakistan-India sea pipeline can
we consider the earliest start of the try of Internal Affairs of Russia and be named. Russian companies are also
national reconciliation process the the Anti Narcotics Force of Pakistan ready to promote modernization of the
modality of which must be determined have developed information sharing Pakistani energy sector, including
by Afghans themselves. We are confi- on issues of countering drug traffick- reconstruction the existing and
dent that the principle of fair and ing, prevention of illicit trafficking and construction of new thermal power
equal partnership, which has been laid use of drugs as well as relevant statis- plants.
in the foundation of the Moscow tics and expertise. We have accumu- The continuing strengthening of inter-
format of consultations on Afghani- lated best practices in training of regional communications is truly
stan and the SCO-Afghanistan Contact specialists: dozens of Pakistani ANF pleasing. We have established steady
group, takes into account the interests officers have undergone training in contacts between the Republic of
of all regional actors and perfectly Russia on a pro bono basis. Tatarstan and the province of Punjab
meets the goal of the launch of the An economic component of – which was in many respects promot-
dialogue between the Afghans. Russian-Pakistani relations does not ed by a visit of the President of
Countering new challenges and correspond to the existing potential. Tatarstan Rustam N.Minnikhanov to
threats, first of all international terror- Certainly, efforts are needed to Pakistan in March, 2017. In October of
ism, is the priority sphere of bilateral increase mutual trade, which is now the same year the agreement on coop-
cooperation. We are aware of heavy around 540 million US dollars, as well eration between the governments of
losses of Pakistan in the struggle as to diversify its structure and to St. Petersburg and the province of
against this global evil. From 2001 promote investment projects in the Sindh was signed. Now "the road map"
about 60 000 Pakistanis, including 10 partner country. Leaders of both our on implementation of this document
000 militaries and law-enforcement countries have tasked to force the is being developed.
officers, have been killed by terrorists. development of trade and economic Cultural and humanitarian relations
We support the efforts of Islamabad ties, which are needed to be risen the are being consistently strengthened.
aimed at eradicating hotbeds of new level. In this context, we have We welcome interest of the Pakistani
terrorism and religious extremism in high expectations of the youth in study in the Russian higher
the territory of Pakistan including the Russian-Pakistani Intergovernmental education institutions. According to
adjacent to Afghanistan Pashtun tribal Commission on Trade, Economic, the agreement reached at the top-level
areas. Scientific and Technical Cooperation, the number of the state grants provid-
On our part, we will continue to give within the framework of which ed to citizens of Pakistan for training
practical assistance for strengthening specific projects of business in Russia will be increased gradually.
the antiterrorist potential of Pakistan, partnerships are being considered. We support the activity of the Paki-
what, as we are convinced, meets The fifth meeting of the IGC took place stani Association of graduates of the
interests of other regional countries. in Moscow in November of 2017 under Soviet and Russian higher education
Our bilateral military and technical chairmanship of Minister of Industry institutions that unite several thou-
cooperation is aimed at increasing and Trade of the Russian Federation sands of people. In 2017 the member
military capacity of the Pakistani secu- Mr. Denis V. Manturov and Minister of the Association Dr. Najam Ul Sahar
rity structures combating terrorists. of Defence of the Islamic Republic of Batt – the author of brilliant transla-
In this very context we should view the Pakistan Mr. Khurram Dastgir Khan. tions of the Russian classical literature
contract on the supply of Russian The most important now is to ensure in Urdu - was awarded by the medal of
military transport helicopters MI-35 that the agreements reached are Pushkin for a big personal contribu-
M to Pakistan, which is being imple- implemented. tion to promoting and advance of
mented. We proceed from the There is a tremendous scope for a Russian and culture abroad.
assumption that these aircrafts will be cooperation in energy sector, which Russia and Pakistan have all reasons
useful in conducting counter-terror- has been established in Pakistan with to look with optimism into the future
ism operations. the help of Soviet specialists. The of the partnership. The relations of
We will continue well-proven practice flagship project– construction of the our states are based on the strong base
of holding joint tactical exercise “Dru- 1100 km long North-South gas pipe- of equality, mutual trust, respect for
zhba” (“Friendship”) on coordination line with a capacity of 12,4 billion international law, coincidence or
of counter-terrorism operations in cubic meters a year which will connect proximity of approaches to topical
mountain area. The first round of such the LNG terminals in Karachi and issues of the global and regional
exercise took place in Khyber-Pakh- Lahore in accordance with the inter- agenda.
tunkhwa in 2016, and the second in governmental agreement of 2015.
Karachaevo-Cirkassia region of Russia The interested economic operators of
in 2017. the two countries also study other
We are building up cooperation in joint projects. Among them supply of
the Russian liquefied natural gas to
Pakistan, as well as construction of the

70th Anniversary of Pakistan Russia Diplomatic Relations

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Alexey Dedov the Muzaffargarh Thermal Power Energy is the most promising sphere
Plant were constructed and commis- of our cooperation. The Intergovern-
Ambassador of the Russian sioned with the help of the Soviet mental Agreement on construction of
Federation to the Islamic Republic of company “Technopromexport” in the “North – South” Gas Pipeline from
1993, 1994 and 1995 respectively. Karachi to Lahore was signed on Octo-
Pakistan During the visit of the Prime Minister ber 16, 2015 in Islamabad by the
of Pakistan Nawaz Sharif to Russia in Minister of Energy of Russia A.V.No-
Economic April 1999 the Intergovernmental vak and the Minister of Petroleum and
Cooperation Agreement on Trade and Economic Natural Resources of Pakistan Shahid
between Russia and Cooperation was signed. Khaqan Abbasi. The pipeline with a
One of the main result of the signed length of 1100 km and a capacity of up
Pakistan agreement was establishment of the to 12.4 billion cubic meters of gas will
effective institutional mechanism of connect the terminals in Karachi and
Achievements and Challenges our bilateral interaction on March 30, Lahore for receiving liquefied natural
On May 1, 2018 Russia and Pakistan 2000 – the Intergovernmental Com- gas. The project assumes the maxi-
are celebrating the 70th anniversary of mission on Trade, Economic, Scientif- mum use of technologies, materials
establishing bilateral diplomatic ic and Technical Cooperation (IGC). and equipment produced in Russia,
relations. Our countries are bound by Its 4th session held in Islamabad on involvement of Russian research,
strong ties of friendship based on November 18-20, 2015 was very design and construction organiza-
mutual respect and partnership, important in terms of further develop- tions. This is going to be a big step
desire for multi-faceted and equal ment of Russia-Pakistan trade and towards Pakistan’s self-sufficiency in
cooperation. Russia attaches great economic ties. The Ministry of Science energy.
importance to its relations with Paki- of Russia and the Ministry of Science The legal basis of our bilateral
stan, particularly taking into account and Technology of Pakistan signed a economic cooperation was further
the latter’s influence in the Muslim Memorandum of Understanding on strengthened in 2017 by conclusion of
World as well as in South and Cooperation in Science and Technolo- the Intergovernmental Agreement on
South-Western Asia, which directly gy. Cooperation in the Sphere of Lique-
border southern frontiers of the CIS. Besides, within the IGC framework the fied Natural Gas Supplies on October
Trade and economic relations between First Pakistan Russia Investment 13. Besides, the Russian company
Pakistan and the USSR were estab- Forum was held in which over 80 “Gazprom EP International B.V.” and
lished in the early 1950s, with signing Russian businessmen, officials and the Pakistani “Oil and Gas Develop-
of the Agreement on Economic and experts from various sectors partici- ment Company LTD” have signed
Technical Cooperation. But its real pated. As a result the prospects of Memorandum of Understanding on
development began in 1961 when the widening the scope of bilateral trade July 4 in Saint-Petersburg.
Soviet Union provided a considerable became much more distinct. A signifi- Pursuing further investment opportu-
loan to Pakistan which helped to start cant achievement of the IGC 4th nities in Pakistan the Russian consor-
development of the country’s oil and session is also initiation of the Draft tium of companies “Himmash Appa-
gas fields. In 1981 the thermal power Agreement on Settlement of Mutual rat” and “Orpheus Energy” signed an
plant "Guddu" was commissioned Financial Claims and Obligations on agreement on January 27, 2018 with
with the participation of Soviet operations of the former USSR. the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Oil and Gas
specialists. A successful construction The IGC 5th plenary session in Company Limited for establishing an
of the Pakistan Steel Mills (PSM) in Moscow held on November 30, 2017 oil refinery in Kohat with capacity to
Karachi in 1985 with a capacity of 1.1 and chaired by the Minister of Indus- purify 200,000 barrels oil per day.
mln tons of steel per year became a try and Trade of Russia D.V.Manturov According to the prior signed contract
milestone in the successful bilateral and the Federal Minister for Defence the Russian company “Russian
relations. of Pakistan Khurram Dastgir Khan has Helicopters” has supplied the govern-
The further impetus to economic added pace to dynamic development ments of Punjab and Balochistan with
cooperation between the two coun- of our economic relations. one helicopter Mi-171 each in 2017.
tries was given in 1990s. Three units of The meetings of the following bilateral On January 15, 2018 the Central Bank
bodies were held successfully in of the Russian Federation and the
Moscow in 2017: the 1st session of the State Bank of Pakistan have signed in
Joint Working Group on Trade and Moscow the Memorandum of Under-
Investment (November 28-29), the standing on Bilateral Banking Cooper-
5th session the Russia-Pakistan Joint ation.
Working Group on Energy (November Interaction between the regions of
29). Russia and Pakistan has also gained

70th Anniversary of Pakistan Russia Diplomatic Relations

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momentum in 2015-2017. A visit of our links, including geographical distance and existing financial counterclaims
the delegation of the Trade Develop- between our countries related to the Soviet period.
ment Authority of Pakistan to Moscow However, we see a lot of promising opportunities in the economic field. We
and Saint Petersburg in September intend to diversify trade and investment contacts, improve the legal framework
2015 discovered new exciting oppor- of our relations. Russian business circles are ready to implement mutually
tunities for business links with beneficial projects in energy, railways, telecommunications and IT. Russia has
Russian counterparts. A follow-up trip put forward a number of proposals to enhance cooperation in construction of
of a group of Pakistani businessmen to offshore gas pipeline, power and refining plants, crude oil and oil products
Tatarstan and Bashkortostan, two supply, geological exploration, steel industry, advanced optical and aeronaviga-
industrially developed regions of tion systems, digital TV, promotion of aircrafts, railcars, trucks, medical and
Russia, in 2016 promises to open new agriculture equipment, water and sanitation facilities, advanced IT and phar-
vistas for bilateral trade cooperation maceutical products to the Pakistani market.
between the regions of our countries. The untapped potential of our economic cooperation is huge and has yet to be
Inter-regional cooperation was facili- fulfilled. We are sure that the combined efforts of Russia and Pakistan will
tated by the visit of the President of result in a new impetus to development of our multi-dimensional economic
the Republic of Tatarstan R.N.Min- interaction.
nikhanov to Lahore and Islamabad
(March 17-19, 2017). His Lahore visit
was marked by the 1st Tatarstan-Pun-
jab Business-Forum, during which the
following important documents were
signed: Agreement on Cooperation
between the Lahore Chamber of Com-
merce and Industry and the Chamber
of Commerce of the Republic of
Tatarstan, as well as Memorandum of
Understanding between the State
Autonomous Institution IT Park,
Kazan and the Center of Entrepre-
neurship «PlanX» of the Lahore
University of Information Technolo-
gies in the Sphere of High Technolo-
gies.

Interaction on the level of the Russian Dr. Najam S. Butt Decorated with Pushkin Award
and Pakistani regions was enhanced
by the Agreement between the
Government of Saint-Petersburg and
the Government of Sindh on Coopera-
tion in the Trade, Economic, Scientif-
ic, Technical and Cultural Fields
signed on October 23, 2017. The
Saint-Petersburg – Sindh Business
Forum was also held on the basis of
the Saint-Petersburg Chamber of
Commerce and Industry.

The trade between Russia and Paki-
stan started developing rapidly – its
volume has grown by 33.6% and
reached USD 541 million in 2017
mainly due to increase of the Russian
export to Pakistan by 96.3% (USD 261
million). Pakistani export to Russia
has grown by 2.9% - USD 280 million.
Our economic relations are facing
huge challenges. Definitely, a trade
amount of USD 541 million does not
correspond to potential of cooperation
between Russia and Pakistan. Various
objective factors have been affecting

70th Anniversary of Pakistan Russia Diplomatic Relations

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Statement on Economic Cooperation
between Russia and Pakistan.

Sharif to Russia in April 1999 the Intergovernmental
Agreement on Trade and Economic Cooperation was
signed. One of the main results of the signed agreement
was establishment of the effective institutional mechanism
of our bilateral interaction – the Intergovernmental
Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific and Technical
Cooperation (IGC). Its latest, 5th session was held in
Moscow on November 30, 2017 and chaired by the
Minister of Industry and Trade of Russia Denis V.
Manturov and the Federal Minister for Defence of Pakistan
Khurram Dastgir Khan. It has added pace to dynamic
development of our economic relations.

The current performance of bilateral trade between Russia
and Pakistan is developing – its volume has grown by
Yuri Kozlov 33.5% and reached USD 541 million in 2017, mainly due to
the increase of the Russian export to Pakistan by 96.3%
Trade Representative of (USD 261 million). But these figures do not correspond to
Russian Federation.

I am delighted to share my thoughts with the readers on the potential of cooperation between our countries. Trade is
occasion of Russia Day. This year is very special for Russia limited up to five main products while the scope is much
and for Pakistan, because both countries are celebrating 70 larger. In 2017, the main products of Russian export were
years of friendly and mutual beneficial economic rolled steel, peas and lentil, coal and coal smut, newsprint
cooperation. Trade and economic relations between paper and civil helicopters. Russian import from Pakistan
Pakistan and USSR were established in the early 1950s, includes ready made textile clothing and garments, citrus
with signing of the Agreement on Economic and Technical fruit, leather products, rice and bed linen.
Cooperation. But its real development began in 1961, when
the Soviet Union provided a considerable loan to Pakistan, We intend to diversify trade and investment contacts,
which helped to start development of the country’s oil and improve the legal framework of our relations. Russian
gas fields. In 1981 the Thermal Power Plant "Guddu" was business circles are ready to implement mutually beneficial
commissioned with the participation of Soviet specialists. projects in energy, railways, telecommunications and IT.
The construction of the Pakistan Steel Mills (PSM) in Russia has put forward a number of proposals to enhance
Karachi in 1985 with a capacity of 1.1 mln tons of steel per cooperation in construction of offshore gas pipelines,
year became a milestone in the successful bilateral power plants and refineries, supplies of crude oil and
relations. The further impetus to economic cooperation petrochemical products, geological exploration, banking,
between the two countries was provided in 1990s. Three steel industry, advanced optical and aeronavigation
units of the Muzaffargarh Thermal Power Plant were systems, promotion of modern Russian aircrafts, railcars,
constructed and commissioned with the help of the Soviet medical and agriculture equipment, water and sanitation
M/s. “Technopromexport” in 1993, 1994 and 1995 facilities, smart cities and advanced IT technologies to the
respectively. Pakistani market.

During the visit of the Prime Minister of Pakistan Nawaz Dear friends! I wish you success and prosperity!

70th Anniversary of Pakistan Russia Diplomatic Relations

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President Putin Elected: Assurance of World Peace and
Economic Stability of Russia

By Ashique Hamdani

With the 77% of total polled vote, Russian incumbent Central Bank aggressively expanded money supply to
President Mr. Vladimir Putin won reelection for his combat Inflation. World Bank in 2007 declared that the
second consecutive (fourth overall) term, on 18 March Russian economy achieved "unprecedented
2018. President Mr. Vladimir Putin is not only in Russia macroeconomic stability".
but the most powerful leader in the world.
According to survey of Financial Times in 2012, Russia
President Putin came into power at extremely crucial time was second by economic performance among G20.
in the modern history of Russia; suffering with Russian performance and economic estimate on seven
consequences of IMF supported "shock therapy", program measures: gross domestic product growth, budget deficit
of market-oriented reform, based on the and government debt; economic recovery – output
recommendations of a group of top American economists, compared with the pre-crisis peak; change in debt since
including Mr. Larry Summers, followed by Prime 2009; change in unemployment from 2009 to 2013; and,
Minister Yegor Gaidar and privatisation’s Chief Mr. finally, the deviation of the current account from balance.
Anatoly Chubais, which passed to corrupt and haphazard Russia is listed among best countries for business in
privatization processes turned over major state-owned world. Mr. Herman Gref former Minister of Economy
firms to politically viewed Russian
connected economy “not a crisis
"oligarchs", flows of but rather a new
capital that left the reality"
country illegally and
brought disastrous Russia has become
hyperinflation and 7th largest economy
GDP falling by more of the world, its
than 40% by 1999, success story, under
which wiped out the leadership of
personal savings, President Putin,
crime and destitution indicates promising
spreading rapidly. In index of GDP: $4
the 1990s Russia was trillion, with, per
"the largest capita (PPP):
borrower" from the $27,900, Exports:
International $336.8 billion and
Monetary Fund with Imports: $212.7
loans totaling $20 billion in 2017.
billion.
Russian leaders,
Recalling my particularly, one
memories from the among the most
street of Vilnius, respectful Mr. Yevgeny
Lithuania where I was residing since 1995, about Primakov, orientalist, former Prime Minster and
President Boris Yeltsin shocked announcement of his architecture of Post-Soviet Russian Foreign Policy ,
resignation as president, in his midnight speech with advocated to diversify the economy, to reduce its
amazing words, “Russia needs a new leader at the dependence on raw material, commodities, oil, gas and to
beginning of new millennium” and he handed over power foster a high-technology sector.
to Prime Minister Vladimir V. Putin, who then became
acting President of Russian Federation. World media was Chapter 4 of the Constitution of Russian Federation
shouting “Who is Putin?” defines authority and obligations of The President of the
Russian Federation. Article No 80, of the constitution
After historical victory in 2000 election President Putin pronounces that the President of the Russian Federation
initiated a pro-growth economic reforms including a shall be the head of the State and guarantor of the
comprehensive tax reform, and a broad effort to improved Constitution of the Russian Federation, of the rights and
small and medium-sized enterprises. Russian economy freedoms of citizen. According to the rules fixed by the
got a major boost from rising commodity prices. GDP Constitution of the Russian Federation, he shall adopt
grew on average 7% per year. Disposable incomes more measures to protect the sovereignty of the Russian
than doubled. The number of people living below poverty Federation, its independence and state integrity, ensure
line declined from 30% in 2000 to 14% in 2008. Russian coordinated functioning and interaction of all the bodies

70th Anniversary of Pakistan Russia Diplomatic Relations

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of state power. Russian constitution declares that become candidates, while those running as independents
President of the Russian Federation shall determine the not only had to collect 315,000 but also to form a supporter
guidelines of the internal and foreign policies of the State, group of at least 500 people.
represents the Russian Federation within the country and According to the rules, president is elected by direct
in international relations. popular vote in a two-round majoritarian contest if no
Article 81 defines that President shall be elected for the candidate receives over 50% of the vote in the first round,
period of six years by citizens of the Russian Federation on the two candidates with the most votes advance to a
the basis of universal, equal, direct by secret ballot. Any run-off. At the same time, the candidate is considered
citizen of the Russian Federation, not younger than 35 elected if he has received at least 50 percent of the votes
years of age, and with a permanent residence in Russian and if at least 50% of the eligible votes have been polled,
Federation of not less than 10 years may be elected which makes Russian presidential election among the most
President of the Russian Federation. representative and genuine in the world.

Power and authority of The President of the Russian It might be interested for readers to compare procedures of
Federation described in several article No 83 of the Presidential elections of Russian Federation and United
constitution which includes among several other Sates of America. In United Sates the President and Vice
appointing Prime Minster of the Government of the President are not elected directly by the people. Instead,
Russian Federation, appointing and dismissal of they’re chosen by “electors” through a process called the
Chairman of the Central Bank of the Russian, deputy Electoral College, whereas in Russia peoples are having
prime misters, and federal ministers, judges of the right to elect the president by their votes. In US with 59.7%
Constitution Court, the Supreme Court of the Higher of total turnout in election 2016, Mrs. Clinton won election
Court of Arbitration, as well as a candidate for the post of with 48% of majority votes compared to Trump's who
the Procurator-General , judges of other federal courts; gained only 46% of votes, but became President by
form and head the Security Council of the Russian so-called Electoral College whereas in Russia President
Federation, diplomatic representatives of the Russian Putin reelected with 77% of vote in 67.54% turn out of
Federation in foreign States and international eligible voters.
organizations , plenipotentiary representatives, supreme In a various opinion polls, public opinion across the world
command of the Armed Forces and approve the military and particularly in developing countries reelection of
doctrine of the Russian Federation. Article 84 describes President Vladimir Putin was warmly welcomed. He will be
relationship of the President with Russian Parliament. In leading the country for another six years, until 2024.
Article 85 The President of the Russian Federation , have During his new period, President Mr. Vladimir Putin has
right to use conciliatory procedures to solve disputes promised to improve Russia’s defenses and to raise the
between the bodies of state authority of the Russian living standards of the population, which clearly identifies
Federation and bodies of state authority of the subjects of a world position and domestic stability agenda that
the Russian Federation, as well as between bodies of state defiantly will contribute in peace and stability across the
authority of the subjects of the Russian Federation. world. A predictable Russia, with domestic stability and
Nomination for the candidacy of the office of President global peace will be proven as great asset to articulate
has to follow the unique norms and obligations which interdependent multi-polar world order in 3rd decades of
make this election more democratic and representative. 21st century.
According with Election Commission’s rules, anyone who
may aspirants of presidential candidacy have to collect a Ashique Hamdani, member of
significant number of signatures of voters except the VIPUSKNIK editorial board, a
candidates of those political parties which are having journalist and social activist, is
representation of not less than one-third of the federal Secretary General of Euro Asia
units in the State Duma or the legislative bodies. Business Forum, He lived in USSR,
Currently seven political parties are complying with these Russia, Lithuania and Kazakhstan
criteria and they were eligible to nominate candidates in for more than 20 years and now
election 2018, without collecting signatures. Civic based in Lahore, can be reached by
Platform, the Communist Party of the Russian Federation, Email: hamdaniashique@gmail.com
the Liberal Democratic Party of Russia, A Just Russia,
Rodina and United Russia were qualifying the criteria, but
Civic Platform, A Just Russia, and Rodina decided to
support candidacy of President Mr. Vladimir Putin and
they didn’t a put a candidate in election 2018.

An aspirant of any political party that without any seats in
the State Duma had to collect 105,000 signatures to

70th Anniversary of Pakistan Russia Diplomatic Relations

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70th Anniversary of Pakistan Russia Diplomatic Relations

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Gen. Qammar Javed Bajwa Visits Moscow
“Pakistan is a geo-strategically important country”

Colonel General Oleg Salyukov

Report By: Ishtiaque Hamdani

Russia said Pakistan is a ‘Geo-strategically important’ Gen Bajwa thanked General Oleg and said that Pakistan
country and “it is keen to expand its existing reciprocates desire of enhanced bilateral military
military-to-military cooperation” in a significant engagements. He said that Russia had recently played a
development. The Russian offer to expand defence and positive role to help resolve complex situations in the
security ties with Pakistan came during Army Chief region. He said Pakistan will continue to play its part in
General Qamar Javed Bajwa’s visit to Moscow. keeping conflicts away from the region and “seek
Gen Bajwa held talks with Colonel General Oleg Salyukov, approaches which bring regional convergences into play
Commander Russian Federation Ground Forces, at rather than the divergences”
Kremlin Palace. “Upon arrival the COAS was presented
guard of honour who laid wreath at the Tomb of Unknown Mr. Ishtiaque Hamdani is only Pakistani
Soldier. National anthems of both countries were played,” origin, Russian journalist accredited with
said a handout issued by the military’s media wing here. Government of Russia, he is member of
The notable outcome of the meeting was the Advisory Board, “Union of Nationalities”
acknowledgment by the top Russian military commander journal Committee on Nationalities of
for Pakistan’s achievement in the fight against terrorism Russian Parliament (Duma). He is editor
and contribution for regional peace and stability. of online Urdu newspaper “Sada e Rus”
“Pakistan is a geo-strategically important country and Moscow (www.sadaerus.com) and
Russia is keen to expand its existing bilateral military to director Russian tourist company
military cooperation,” the Russian Ground Forces STRACK Line (http://fly-moscow.ru).
Commander said. He can be reached by + 79653745555

70th Anniversary of Pakistan Russia Diplomatic Relations

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Faisalabad Celebrated 70th Anniversary of
Pakistan-Russia Diplomatic Relation

Faisalabad: Visit of Vladimir Berezyuk Charge d” Affairs Russian Embassy

Organization committee could further expand their collaboration in the coming
for celebration of 70th years. However, he said that after concerted efforts by the
anniversary of Russian two governments, the businessmen of Pakistan and Russia
Diplomatic Relations should also play a proactive role to strengthen their mutual
organized visit of relations.
Excellency Vladirmir
Berezyuk to Pakistan. About cooperation in education sector, he said that
Russian envoy Moscow was ready to send a delegation to Pakistan to
participated in events of explore the opportunities for bilateral exchange of students
Faisalabad Chamber of and faculty members of leading universities of the two
Commerce and Industries, countries.
Pakistan Hosiery Earlier in his address of welcome, acting president of FCCI
Manufactures Association and Pakistan Textile Exporter Farooq Yusuf said that Pakistan and Russian Federation
Association, Excellency Vladirmir Berezyuk was the chief are enjoying good economic and diplomatic ties since 1948.
guest of the event. He said that the trade volume between the two countries in
2016 was 402.78 million dollars. However, Pakistan
Addressing the members of the Faisalabad Chamber of exported goods worth 144.71 million dollars as against the
Commerce & Industry (FCCI), he mentioned the Russian imports of 258.01million dollars from the Russian
cooperation in the development of Pak economy and told Federation. “Thus the balance of trade is in favor of
that Karachi Steel Mills and Gudhu Power Plant are Russia”, he added. Continuing, he said that the share of
examples of our mutual and highly productive cooperation. Pakistan exports is very small as against the total Russian

He said that recently Pakistan and Russia inked an imports of 182 billion Dollars.
agreement to lay Karachi-Lahore pipeline which is
expected to resolve multiple energy related problems of He further said that there are vast prospects of expansion
Pakistan. He said that this year Pakistan and a consortium of bilateral trade including joint ventures in textiles,
of Russian Federation inked an agreement to establish an agro-based industry, live stock industry, leather goods, oil
oil refinery at Kohat. “It will have capacity to refine and gas exploration, information technology and tourism.
hundred thousand barrels of oil per day”, he said and He said that being the 5th largest wheat, rice, cotton, milk
added that yet another agreement would also be signed to and onion producing country Pakistan has ample potential
promote banking channels between the two countries. to promote bilateral trade relations with Russian
Federation for the promotion of economies of both the
Expressing satisfaction over the promotion of bilateral countries. He also underlined the need of creating linkage
relations between the two countries, Vladirmir Berezyuk between Moscow Chamber of Trade & Commerce and FCCI
said that it is growing at a much faster pace. He stressed the to promote businessmen to businessmen relations between
need to diversify the trade to fully capitalize potentialities the two countries.
available in the two countries.
Farooq Yusuf also stressed the need to sign free trade
He also identified railways, communication, construction, agreement between the two countries, which may prove
refinery and other major sectors in which two countries one of the best ways to enhance volume of bilateral trade.

70th Anniversary of Pakistan Russia Diplomatic Relations

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“Impacts of FIFA 2018:
Trade & Cultural Diplomacy among the Member States”

Seminar held in Islamabad

Report by: Khalid Khan

In collaboration with Embassy of Russian Federation, Russian Federation briefed audience with multimedia
Corporate thin tank Euro Asia Business Forum organized a presentation about preparation and procedure to
Seminar “Impacts of FIFA 2018: Trade & Cultural participate in FIFA World Cup 2018, which will be held in
Diplomacy among the Member States” in Islamabad. His 11 cities of Russia in summer 2018.
Excellency Mr. Vladimir Berezyuk, Charge D Affairs,
Embassy of Russian Federation was Chief Guest. Mr. Mr. Khalid khan, president of EAB Forum, in his welcome
Imtiaz Khan Lodhi former Chairman of Pakistan Steel was address thanks to audience and briefed about objectives of
Guest of Honor. Euro Asia Business Forum, which includes networking
with trade bodies, social enterprises, district government,
Mr. Vladimir Berezyuk, in his address said “We are living media and civil society organization , professional and
in turbulent times. The structure of international relations vocational skill development, trainings, strengthening,
is becoming increasingly complex. Tensions are rising due corporate, industry and academia relations, facilitating
to disparities in global development. Attempts to impose trade mission and international organization, supporting
values on others can stoke xenophobia, intolerance and Arts, cultural and sports activities , social enlistment,
conflict in international affairs, leading ultimately to chaos pluralist values, rational secular and democratic values in
and an uncontrolled situation in international relations. I society, media and business relations
would like to quote the Foreign policy concept of the
Russian Federation that “Russia is fighting not against Mr. Ashique Hamdani General Secretary of Euro Asia
someone, but for the resolution of all the issues on an equal Business Forum talked about importance of trade and
and mutually respectful basis”. Therefore, our country cultural diplomacy in Eurasia region and said that EAB
utilizes all peaceful means for that, including promoting Forum is social enterprise to promote business trade,
people-to-people contacts, trade, culture and sports investment, industrial, technical, academic and cultural
between our countries” He appreciated the notion and cooperation with Asian and European countries, primarily
concepts introducing Cultural diplomacy and linking it focusing upon Central and East Europe, Baltic, Balkan,
FIFA 2018. Caucus and Central Asian republics. Prime focus of EAB
Forum is Empowering Pakistan’s relations with European
Mr. Imtiaz Khan Lodhi spoke about role of Steel Mill in and Asian markets in mutual interests and business
trust building between Russia and Pakistan at people level opportunisms. Amir Mehmood spoke about importance of
and said future of Russia Pakistan relations. Brigadier ® tourism in cultural diplomacy. Mr. Faysal Khan Vice
Saif Ullah Orkza, Director of Dewan Group, who served in President of EAB Forum presented vote of thanks.
UN Peacekeeping missions in various countries Diplomats from various countries, business community
highlighted role of cultural and sports diplomacy in from Lahore, and Sialkot, cultural and film industry
peacekeeping. officials, media, civil society, football sports clubs and
Mr. Sentyurin Vyacheslav, Second Secretary of Embassy of other sectors are participating in event.

70th Anniversary of Pakistan Russia Diplomatic Relations

14

70th Anniversary of Pakistan Russia Diplomatic Relations

15

“Impacts of FIFA
2018:

Trade & Cultural
Diplomacy
among the

Member States”

70th Anniversary of Pakistan Russia Diplomatic Relations

16

“Impacts of FIFA 2018:
Trade & Cultural Diplomacy among the Member States”

70th Anniversary of Pakistan Russia Diplomatic Relations

17

USSR Visit: Field Marshal Ayub Khan and President
Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto

70th Anniversary of Pakistan Russia Diplomatic Relations

18

Pakistani
Diplomat

with
President

Boris
Yelstein

Russia Pakistan Dialogue in Pictures

70th Anniversary of Pakistan Russia Diplomatic Relations

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President V. Putin, Prime Minister D. Medvedev, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavro
with Pakistani Leaders President Asif Zardari, Prime Minister Yousaf Raza
Gillani, Raja Pervaiz Ashraf & Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar

70th Anniversary of Pakistan Russia Diplomatic Relations

20

Russian and SCO Leaders with Prime Minister Khaqan
Abbasi, Nawaz Sharif and President Musharaf

70th Anniversary of Pakistan Russia Diplomatic Relations

21

Moscow: Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa
with Russian Military Leaders and Diplomats

Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa with Mr. Alexey Dedov
Ambassador Russian Federation in Pakistan

Ex Army Chiefs General Kiyani and General Raheel Shareef in Moscow

70th Anniversary of Pakistan Russia Diplomatic Relations

22

Pak - Russia Army Exercise

70th Anniversary of Pakistan Russia Diplomatic Relations

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Faisalabad Pictorial: Visit of H.E Vladimir Berezyuk

70th Anniversary of Pakistan Russia Diplomatic Relations

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Faisalabad Pictorial: Visit of H.E Vladimir Berezyuk

70th Anniversary of Pakistan Russia Diplomatic Relations

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Inauguration of Pak - Uzbek Trade and Culture Center

OPENING CEREMONY

26

Defence minister leads high level
delegation to Tajikistan

A high- level domestic and regional mechanisms to counter terrorism
delegation led by and prevent violent extremism and radicalization that
the Minister for lead to terrorism and strengthening cooperation against
Defence of the cyber-terrorism and developing directives/guidelines for
Islamic Republic countering violent extremism in cyber-space. More than
of Pakistan 400 participants from 46 countries and 30 international
Khurram Dastgir Khan takes part in the High-Level and regional organizations, as well as research institutes
International conference on countering terrorism and have been registered.
preventing violent extremism in the capital of Tajikistan The conference will be attended by heads and senior
Dushanbe today. representatives of foreign policy and other relevant
This conference organized by the Government of the agencies of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan,
Republic of Tajikistan, together with the United Nations, Turkmenistan, Hungary, Switzerland, Bahrain, India,
the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe Armenia, Russia, China, the United States, Spain,
and the European Union. Germany, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Canada, Belgium,
The objectives of the High-Level International conference Slovakia, Sweden, the United Kingdom, Ukraine, Japan,
on countering terrorism and preventing violent Indonesia, Turkey, Afghanistan, Iraq, Pakistan, Qatar,
extremism are creating a common understanding of Morocco, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Syria, Libya and others.
current challenges and obstacles in the implementation of The conference will also be attended by heads and
the UNGCTS in the region and globally; exploring representatives of a number of international and regional
opportunities for strengthening partnership and organizations, such as the UN, OSCE, EU, CSTO, SCO,
cooperation at national, regional and international levels CIS, etc., the diplomatic corps and development partners,
on combating terrorism and violent extremism; sharing civil society and research institutes.
opportunities and challenges of Tajikistan’s National The conference is intended to serve as an important
Counter-Terrorism Strategy implementation; identifying platform for comprehensive dialogue and interaction
trends and challenges of radicalization and the role of among all interested parties with a view to exchanging
youth, ideology and information in preventing and experience and developing concrete steps for further joint
combating violent extremism leading to terrorism; and coordinated actions in the fight against modern
exchanging experiences in countering terrorism and challenges and threats to security.
preventing violent extremism with a focus on Foreign At the end of the conference, an outcome document will be
Terrorist Fighters (FTF) threat prevention; stock-taking of adopted.

National Leader
Heydar Aliyev’s 95th
anniversary marked in

Pakistan

ISLAMABAD, MAY 03 (DNA) – “Azerbaijan part in the tournament and entertaining competitions.
Golf Tournament-Heydar Aliyev 95” and Speaking at the awarding ceremony, Major General ®
various entertaining competitions dedicated Mohammed Ali Khan, executive director, Bahria City and
to the 95th anniversary of Heydar Aliyev, the Sammy Savary, manager operations of Bahria Golf Club
National Leader of the Azerbaijan people were emphasized that, the political, economic, social and
held in Pakistan. cultural progress of Azerbaijan since the 1960s is
“Azerbaijan Golf Tournament-Heydar Aliyev 95” and connected with the name of Heydar Aliyev.
various entertaining competitions dedicated to the 95th
anniversary of Heydar Aliyev, the National Leader of the
Azerbaijan people were organized by the Embassy of the
Republic of Azerbaijan to Pakistan in collaboration with
Bahria Town at the Bahria Golf Club, in Islamabad.
The Ambassadors of various foreign countries in Pakistan,
diplomats, professional golfers and public figures took

27

Intergovernmental Commission for Trade and Scientific
Cooperation between Pakistan & Russia

70th Anniversary of Pakistan Russia Diplomatic Relations

28

Lahore: 70th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relation
between Pakistan and Russia

70th Anniversary of Pakistan Russia Diplomatic Relations

29

Message

Dr. Shahid Hasan | Chief Organizer all Pakistan Graduates from Russia and CIS Chief Editor Vipusknik

It’s my honour to extend my cooperation, and visa facilitation. The Pakistani and
heartfelt congratulations to the Russian ministers signed the formal protocol after a
diplomatic community of plenary session of the IGC that concluded three days of
Russian Federation in Pakistan, multi-faceted dialogue and negotiations between the
Islamic Republic of Pakistan in Pakistan and Russian contingents. 5th IGC had
Russia, Russian Community in accelerated ongoing negotiations on numerous energy
Pakistan, Pakistani Community sector investments by Russia into Pakistan.
in Russia, Russia- Pakistan Association of Pakistan Graduates from Russia and CIS
Business Councils and the admires great response from governments, business
member of Association of Pakistan Graduates from Russia communities, media, cultural organisations, think tanks
and CIS, on the occasion of the 70th Years anniversary of and academia to celebrate 70th Years anniversary of the
the establishment of diplomatic relations between Russia establishment of diplomatic relations between Russia and
and Pakistan Pakistan at large scale across the country both In Russia
Recently 5th Pak-Russia Inter-Governmental and Pakistan which represents a major milestone,
Commission (IGC) held in Moscow explored defense signifying a new chapter whereby our relations will
cooperation, trade liberalization, increasing scholarship become even closer and more comprehensive.
for Pakistani students in Russia, banking and customs

Dr. Zahid Hasan | Chairman- Association of Pakistani Graduates from Russia & CIS.

Association of Pakistani countries ( 1948-2018
Graduates from Russia & CIS Association wishes for the improvement of Bilateral
congratulates to the relations between Pakistan and Russia.
Governments and people of Significant developments of relations in the field of Trade
Pakistan and Russian and Economic, Scientific and Culture and other fields can
Federation on the occasion of be seen.
the 70 Years of Diplomatic Long live friendly relations between Pakistan and Russia.
Relations between the both

Dr. Ashraf Nizami

President of Pakistan Medical Association Founder General Secretary of Pakistan Graduates from Russia and CIS

On behalf of the Pakistani Federation, on the occasion of 70th anniversary of
Medical Association and diplomatic relation between our both countries.
Association of Pakistani Wish in our region peace and prosperity and hope that
Graduates from Russia and CIS relation between Pakistan and Russia will develop
Countries, I am congratulating political, economically and cultural areas in future.
Government and people of LONG LIVE PAKISTAN-RUSSIAN FRIENDSHIP.
Pakistan and Russian

Engr. Iftikhar Ali | General Secretary, Association of Pakistani Graduates from Russia & CIS

I, on behalf of Association of for their outstanding role in strengthening and promoting
Pakistani Graduates from friendly relations between Pakistan and Russia and assure
Russia & CIS congratulate H.E them that all members of APGR&CIS will always be
Ambassador of the Russian supporting and assisting you in your efforts.
Federation and his colleagues

70th Anniversary of Pakistan Russia Diplomatic Relations

Message by: Mr. Habib 30
Ahmed Honorary
Council of Russian Message by: Mr. Arsallah
Khan Honorary Council of
Federation, Lahore.
Russian Federation,
Peshawar.

On behalf of Honorary Consul of Russian Federation I have always believed that the natural relationship
Lahore, Pakistan, I would like to extend congratulations on between The Russian Federation and Pakistan should be of
the occasion of 70th Anniversary of Russia Pakistan the highest level of friendship. On this auspicious day I am
diplomatic relations. I wish the people of Russia and delighted to extend my congratulations to His Excellency
Pakistan peace, prosperity and well-being. Mr. Alexey Y. Dedov, and to the diplomats of The Embassy
of The Russian Federation as well as the Russian
I firmly believe that the 70th Anniversary of Russia community in Pakistan on the occasion of the 70th
Pakistan will be bringing mutual trust and unbreakable anniversary of establishment of Diplomatic Relations
partnership between the people of the both nations. I hope between Russia and Pakistan. I wish all the people of
leadership of our both countries, respective diplomatic Russia peace, prosperity and well-being.
community, Russia Pakistan Business Council,
Association of Pakistani Graduates from Russia and CIS Please accept the assurances of my highest consideration.
will be continued their noble efforts to establish an highest
level of cooperation.

I assure my highest support and cooperation on 70th Years Yours Sincerely
Anniversary of establishing Diplomatic Relation between Muhammad Arsallah Khan
Russia and Pakistan. H.C Kpk & Fata

70th Anniversary of Pakistan Russia Diplomatic Relations

31

Pictorial History: Russia Pakistan Celebrations

70th Anniversary of Pakistan Russia Diplomatic Relations

VIPUSKNIK

Chief Editor: Dr. Shahid Hasan Editor: Ashique Hamdani

drhasan47@gmail.com | Cell: +92 336 458 7263 Cell: +92 332 1555 260
148-A, Westridge Peshawar Road, Rawalpindi. hamdaniashique@gmail.com

Associate Editor: Saleem Malik Associate Editor: Engr. Iftikhar Ali

Cell: +92 321 5385 223 Cell: +92 323 515 9205
iftikharali70@hotmail.com

70th Anniversary of Pakistan Russia Diplomatic Relations