ISLAMABAD: Russian Ambassador Albert P. Khorov on Monday said Moscow and Islamabad are on the same page as far as Gaza is concerned, and the Kremlin shares the sentiments of the Muslim World in addressing the question of Palestinian statehood in the Middle East.

Addressing a seminar, “Legacy of Russian diplomacy: current state and prospects of Pakistan-Russia relations,” at Islamabad Policy Research Institute (IPRI), he said, “We share concerns of regional countries surrounding Afghanistan due to terrorism emanating from Afghanistan; and we need to work and coordinate with the regime in Kabul to improve security situation.”

He said Russian diplomacy had come a long way having evolved over several centuries.

The ambassador observed that the war in Ukraine should not be seen merely in quest of territory, as there are so many concerns especially the security and protection of Russian-speaking people as well as the issue of demilitarisation.

Mr Khorov remarked that Moscow is willing to play its role in mediating between India and Pakistan to address the dispute of Kashmir. He also noted that Russia had not yet been informed by India officially of any cut in trade ties, especially purchase of oil and petroleum products, in the backdrop of its tariffs deal with the United States.

The envoy pointed out that Taliban government, which Moscow has recognised, is working “in its national interests”, and has achieved success in manning its internal affairs and security to a great extent. He criticised the United States and the Western countries for continuing with sanctions on Afghanistan, and called for unfreezing Afghan assets.

He, however, underscored the need for collectively working with neighbouring states in Central and South Asia for fighting terrorism and ensuring peace prospects.

To a question on Board of Peace and Russia’s plausible inclusion in it, the ambassador said President Vladimir Putin had already expressed his reservations. He, nonetheless, said Russia can contribute as a donor, provided the money is consumed from Russia’s “frozen assets”.

He said President Trump’s policies vis-à-vis Venezuela and Greenland are in violation of norms of diplomatic decency and international law.

He advised Pakistan to focus internally and concentrate on building its economic edifice for asserting a pivotal role in regional and global affairs.

Published in Dawn, February 10th, 2026