KARACHI, Feb 14: The Consul General of the Russian Federation in Karachi Mr Vladmir Seliverstov held a reception to commemorate the founding of the Russian Foreign Service.

Russia observes February 10th every year as the day of the diplomatic service. The Russian Foreign Service was created on February 10, 1495 by Czar Ivan IV.

Mr Vladimir Seliverstov invited members of the diplomatic corps and officials of the Pakistan foreign office to a dinner. The representatives of Russian trade organisations were also present on the occasion.

The Russian Consul General said Russia was keen to develop good relations with all countries. He said Moscow considered Pakistan an important country in the region. He said he wanted to improve trade relations as well as cultural ties. He also said Russia officially began observing Dipolamtic Service Day from 2002.— By A Reporter