In a significant diplomatic move, Russia has pledged to enhance its defense cooperation with Pakistan, signaling a warming of relations between the two nations. The assurance came during a meeting between Russia’s Deputy Defense Minister, Colonel Alexander Fomin, and outgoing Pakistani Ambassador to Russia, Shafqat Ali Khan.
This development has caught the attention of India, which has traditionally shared a close bond with Russia. According to the Russian Defense Ministry, the meeting between Colonel Fomin and Ambassador Khan revolved around the agenda of bilateral military cooperation. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening and expanding their defense ties.
The official Tass news agency quoted the Russian Defense Ministry, saying, “Russian Deputy Defence Minister Colonel General Alexander Fomin met with Pakistani Ambassador to Russia Shafqat Ali Khan, who is finishing his mission in our country.
The sides discussed the current agenda of bilateral military cooperation and reiterated mutual commitment to strengthening and expanding Russian-Pakistani defence ties.” Furthermore, the Ministry highlighted that Ambassador Khan expressed his gratitude to Russia for its comprehensive support and assistance during his diplomatic tenure, emphasizing the cordial atmosphere of the meeting.
It’s worth noting that Russia and Pakistan have been actively mending their Cold War-era rivalry and fostering a new era of cooperation. Recent strains in Pakistan-US relations have also played a role in bringing the two nations closer, aligning more closely with Russia and China.
While India has been keeping a watchful eye on the growing partnership between Russia and Pakistan, Russia has reassured that its actions will not compromise India’s defense interests.
