ISLAMABAD, Friday, May 1, 2026 (WNP): The Embassy of Russia in Pakistan on Friday marked the 78th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Russia and the Pakistan, reaffirming commitment to further strengthening bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors.

In a statement, the embassy highlighted that in the early years following Pakistan’s independence, the former Soviet Union extended significant economic assistance to the newly established state, including the provision of thousands of tons of food grain.

It noted that during the 1970s, with Moscow’s technical expertise and cooperation, Pakistan initiated several key industrial and energy projects, including the establishment of the country’s largest steel mill in Karachi, as well as major thermal power plants in Muzaffargarh, Multan-II, and Guddu. Additionally, cooperation extended to the development of a radio station near Islamabad, as well as support in the formation of the Oil and Gas Development Company and advancement of the agricultural sector.

The embassy stated that expanding a mutually beneficial partnership with Pakistan remains a priority of Russia’s foreign policy in South Asia, adding that dialogue between Moscow and Islamabad continues to grow steadily, based on mutual respect and convergence of views on key international issues.

It further highlighted that meetings of the Russia-Pakistan Intergovernmental Commission on trade, economic, scientific, and technical cooperation are held regularly. Bilateral trade between the two countries surpassed one billion US dollars in 2023.

According to the statement, Russian and Pakistani pharmaceutical companies are currently preparing to launch a joint project for insulin production in Pakistan, reflecting growing cooperation in the healthcare sector.

In the field of education, collaboration is also expanding, with the Russian government awarding 152 scholarships to Pakistani students for the 2025–2026 academic year to pursue higher education in Russian universities. The number of students in Pakistan learning the Russian language is also steadily increasing.

The embassy noted that Russia and Pakistan maintain close coordination on international platforms, including the United Nations and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, which it described as a key pillar for security and sustainable development in Eurasia.

It also underscored Pakistan’s role as an important international partner for Russia in addressing security challenges and threats.

Reaffirming the shared commitment to further strengthen ties, the embassy emphasized continued efforts to enhance cooperation in political, economic, educational, cultural, humanitarian, and other fields of mutual interest.

On the occasion, the Russian Embassy extended heartfelt congratulations to the people and government of Pakistan on the anniversary of diplomatic relations, expressing confidence in a stronger and more dynamic partnership in the years ahead.