Ambassador Danila V. Ganich was welcomed with fanfare as new envoy to Pakistan of the Russian Federation. The reception was hosted by Habib Ahmed, long-time Russian honorary consul general in Lahore, with Mohammad Arsala Khan, who was appointed honorary consul general in Peshawar last year.

The event was held at Serena Hotel in the presence of Pakistani officials serving in the current and former governments and members of the private sector and the diplomatic community. Envoys from Central and South Asian countries attended the event, along with representatives from other countries. The dean of the diplomatic corps, Turkmen Ambassador Atajan Movlamov, was a prominent guest.

Ambassador Ganich has served in Pakistan twice before, from 1999-2003 and 2007-2013.

In his speech, he said he was delighted to be back in Pakistan and he outlined priorities in the Russian-Pakistani relations, mentioning several areas, including expansion of trade. He said it was important to find an Afghan settlement and work to counter terrorism in all fields. As a welcome gift to the new envoy, Mr Habib Ahmed presented him a painting. During dinner, musicians entertained the guests.

Published in Dawn, July 15th, 2019