Islamabad: The Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) welcomed H.E. Albert P. Khorev, newly appointed Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Pakistan, on his inaugural visit. Ambassador Sohail Mahmood, Director General of ISSI, chaired the meeting which was attended by Ambassador Khalid Mahmood, Chairman of the Board of Governors (BOG) of ISSI; Dr. Neelum Nigar, Director, Center for Strategic Perspectives (CSP); and Mr. Taimur Khan, CSP-ISSI Research Fellow.
DG ISSI Ambassador Sohail Mahmood extended a warm welcome to Ambassador Khorev and hoped that Pakistan-Russia relations would continue to grow during his tenure. He also highlighted the history of the Institute as well as the scope of ISSI’s work and activities enhancing closer ties between Pakistan and Russia.
During the discussion, both sides expressed satisfaction over the positive trajectory of Pakistan-Russia bilateral relations, cooperation on regional issues and cooperation in multilateral forums. The two sides noted numerous complementarities and recognized the importance of exploring new avenues for mutually beneficial cooperation, especially in the fields of economy, trade, energy, security and people-to-people relations. Strengthening ties through close cooperation in forums such as the SCO was emphasized. This year’s Russian chairmanship of BRICS and Pakistan’s interest in BRICS membership were also discussed.
It was also agreed to continue activities that would help foster closer linkages between scientists, area specialists and academics, as well as think tanks on both sides to promote deeper mutual understanding and strengthen ties between Pakistan and Russia.
The meeting ended with Ambassador Khalid Mahmood presenting a moment of the Institute to Ambassador Khorev on his first visit to ISSI and a group photo.
