PM Imran Khan's Russia trip confirmed - Will this benefit Pakistan?

[MenInG]

The Foreign Office on Friday confirmed that Prime Minister Imran Khan would undertake what is seen as a landmark visit to Russia next week, bringing a turnaround in the relationship between the former two Cold-War rivals.

At a weekly news briefing, Foreign Office spokesperson Asim Iftikhar told reporters that the prime minister would visit Moscow at the invitation of Russian President Vladimir Putin. He, however, did not share his exact itinerary, saying such details would be shared at an appropriate time.

Official sources, nevertheless, said PM Imran is scheduled to travel to Russia on February 23. This would be the first official bilateral visit by an elected prime minister in 23 years.

The last time any Pakistani premier undertook an official visit to the country was when former prime minister Nawaz Sharif visited Moscow in March 1999. In between, former military ruler General Pervez Musharraf, president Asif Ali Zardari and prime minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi did visit Russia but none of them was official bilateral trips.

Read: Gas pipeline projects among PM’s Russia visit agenda

The visit will be closely watched by outside the country as well, particularly the US given the current crisis over Ukraine. India would also keenly follow the PM’s visit since New Delhi has a long-term strategic partnership with Moscow. But in recent years, as India inched closer to the US, Russia has also made moves to improve ties with Pakistan.

The process of rapprochement began during the later years of Musharraf but picked up pace in 2011 when Pakistan’s relationship with the US went haywire. At that time Pakistan decided to diversify its foreign policy options and reach out to Russia.

The PM's visit is seen as part of the ongoing efforts by the two sides to bury their bitter past and enter into a new era of cooperation.

It is expected that the visit would focus on how to improve bilateral ties, particularly in the economic and trade sectors. Progress is also expected on the Pakistan Stream Gas Pipeline project that the Russian company would undertake in Pakistan laying a pipeline from Karachi to Kasur.

On the diplomatic side, the two countries are expected to discuss the regional security situation with a particular focus on Afghanistan. Unlike the past, Pakistan and Russia have convergence on the issue of Afghanistan as both sides are keen that the current dispensation in Kabul succeeds.

Moscow and Islamabad are worried that any instability in Afghanistan would give rise to terrorist groups that would pose direct security challenges to both countries.

Meanwhile, on the 15th anniversary of the horrific terrorist attack on the Samjhauta Express that claimed the lives of 68 innocent passengers including 44 Pakistani nationals, the foreign office on Friday summoned the acting Indian envoy.

The Indian Charge d’Affaires in Islamabad was summoned to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and was conveyed Pakistan’s severe disappointment at the Indian government’s callousness towards the plight of the families of the Pakistani nationals, who await justice even after the passage of fifteen years, said the foreign office spokesperson.

The Indian diplomat was further conveyed our alarm that the Hindutva extremism and “Saffron terror” that had motivated the inhuman attack fifteen years ago has intensified manifold under the current regime in India.

The Charge d’Affaires was asked to convey to the Indian government in the strongest terms, Pakistan’s condemnation of the shameless acquittal and exoneration of all accused in a dastardly terrorist attack, including Swami Aseeman, an RSS activist, who publicly confessed to being the mastermind of the heinous attack.

This was just another manifestation of the brazen impunity and full state protection that perpetrators of terrorism enjoy in the BJP-ruled India.

The Charge d’Affaires was also asked to convey to the Indian government, Pakistan’s demand for a fair trial and for bringing the perpetrators and abettors of the Samjhauta Express terrorist attack to justice. The families of the innocent Pakistani nationals, mercilessly killed at the hands of the Hindutva-motivated extremists deserve closure.

Pakistan strongly called upon India to renounce the use of terrorism as an instrument of state policy and faithfully implement its obligations under the international legal regime governing terrorism.

https://tribune.com.pk/story/2344276/fo-confirms-pms-landmark-trip-to-russia

 

[Ahmad-GERMANFC]

Russia is a global non entity surviving solely on its past reputation and the fact that no one wants to involve itself in that geographic part of the world

 

[PakLFC]

It will certainly not harm Pak in anyway. Days have gone that we always looked at America as our saviours. We must assess our options now to see what is best for us. The American's have let us down too many times in the past. If America does not like our relations with China and Russia then that's too bad.

 

[ElRaja]

It will certainly not harm Pak in anyway. Days have gone that we always looked at America as our saviours. We must assess our options now to see what is best for us. The American's have let us down too many times in the past. If America does not like our relations with China and Russia then that's too bad.

geopolitics doesn't work that way. pak is totally reliant on international capital markets to survive, and the USA is the gatekeeper of that garden. pak (or the military at least) has messed around with America as much as vice versa, but both need each other to varying amounts.

the idea that pak can pick and choose its main allies is not tenable, Pakistan only prospers if it manages diplomacy between all these players. but if push comes to shove it is russia that pak can most easily afford to lose. angling cpec extensions into central Asia is as much of a potential threat to russia as it is an opportunity.

healthy relations with china and the us will always be the most imperative for pak to thrive. uncertainty in every other relationship is manageable. if anyone in paks leadership thinks otherwise they need a reality check.

 

[finalfantasy7]

The Foreign Office on Friday confirmed that Prime Minister Imran Khan would undertake what is seen as a landmark visit to Russia next week, bringing a turnaround in the relationship between the former two Cold-War rivals.

At a weekly news briefing, Foreign Office spokesperson Asim Iftikhar told reporters that the prime minister would visit Moscow at the invitation of Russian President Vladimir Putin. He, however, did not share his exact itinerary, saying such details would be shared at an appropriate time.

Official sources, nevertheless, said PM Imran is scheduled to travel to Russia on February 23. This would be the first official bilateral visit by an elected prime minister in 23 years.

The last time any Pakistani premier undertook an official visit to the country was when former prime minister Nawaz Sharif visited Moscow in March 1999. In between, former military ruler General Pervez Musharraf, president Asif Ali Zardari and prime minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi did visit Russia but none of them was official bilateral trips.

Read: Gas pipeline projects among PM’s Russia visit agenda

The visit will be closely watched by outside the country as well, particularly the US given the current crisis over Ukraine. India would also keenly follow the PM’s visit since New Delhi has a long-term strategic partnership with Moscow. But in recent years, as India inched closer to the US, Russia has also made moves to improve ties with Pakistan.

The process of rapprochement began during the later years of Musharraf but picked up pace in 2011 when Pakistan’s relationship with the US went haywire. At that time Pakistan decided to diversify its foreign policy options and reach out to Russia.

The PM's visit is seen as part of the ongoing efforts by the two sides to bury their bitter past and enter into a new era of cooperation.

It is expected that the visit would focus on how to improve bilateral ties, particularly in the economic and trade sectors. Progress is also expected on the Pakistan Stream Gas Pipeline project that the Russian company would undertake in Pakistan laying a pipeline from Karachi to Kasur.

On the diplomatic side, the two countries are expected to discuss the regional security situation with a particular focus on Afghanistan. Unlike the past, Pakistan and Russia have convergence on the issue of Afghanistan as both sides are keen that the current dispensation in Kabul succeeds.

Moscow and Islamabad are worried that any instability in Afghanistan would give rise to terrorist groups that would pose direct security challenges to both countries.

Meanwhile, on the 15th anniversary of the horrific terrorist attack on the Samjhauta Express that claimed the lives of 68 innocent passengers including 44 Pakistani nationals, the foreign office on Friday summoned the acting Indian envoy.

The Indian Charge d’Affaires in Islamabad was summoned to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and was conveyed Pakistan’s severe disappointment at the Indian government’s callousness towards the plight of the families of the Pakistani nationals, who await justice even after the passage of fifteen years, said the foreign office spokesperson.

The Indian diplomat was further conveyed our alarm that the Hindutva extremism and “Saffron terror” that had motivated the inhuman attack fifteen years ago has intensified manifold under the current regime in India.

The Charge d’Affaires was asked to convey to the Indian government in the strongest terms, Pakistan’s condemnation of the shameless acquittal and exoneration of all accused in a dastardly terrorist attack, including Swami Aseeman, an RSS activist, who publicly confessed to being the mastermind of the heinous attack.

This was just another manifestation of the brazen impunity and full state protection that perpetrators of terrorism enjoy in the BJP-ruled India.

The Charge d’Affaires was also asked to convey to the Indian government, Pakistan’s demand for a fair trial and for bringing the perpetrators and abettors of the Samjhauta Express terrorist attack to justice. The families of the innocent Pakistani nationals, mercilessly killed at the hands of the Hindutva-motivated extremists deserve closure.

Pakistan strongly called upon India to renounce the use of terrorism as an instrument of state policy and faithfully implement its obligations under the international legal regime governing terrorism.

https://tribune.com.pk/story/2344276/fo-confirms-pms-landmark-trip-to-russia

its very simple, pakistan in need of gas - doesnt have great relationships with saudi , qatar or even iran - so nearest country with a load of gas is russia - who need to sell, pakistan is desperate for gas.

Why will putin listen to modi ? he doesnt listen to anyone - why do the indians think putin wont sell gas to pakistan.

Like the above article mention both countries are are expected to discuss the regional security situation with a particular focus on Afghanistan- as america left them and hold all thr assets.

It will be good for pakistan to purchase gas from russia, but remember russia wont be like china in any aspect - they always go for the money and if pakistan dont pay up then russia will interferre instantly = which means the poor in pakistan will suffer more

 

[PakLFC]

geopolitics doesn't work that way. pak is totally reliant on international capital markets to survive, and the USA is the gatekeeper of that garden. pak (or the military at least) has messed around with America as much as vice versa, but both need each other to varying amounts.

the idea that pak can pick and choose its main allies is not tenable, Pakistan only prospers if it manages diplomacy between all these players. but if push comes to shove it is russia that pak can most easily afford to lose. angling cpec extensions into central Asia is as much of a potential threat to russia as it is an opportunity.

healthy relations with china and the us will always be the most imperative for pak to thrive. uncertainty in every other relationship is manageable. if anyone in paks leadership thinks otherwise they need a reality check.

You want Pak to keep begging the usual suspects? We will soon be living in a bipolar world with America no longer being the big daddy after it's humiliation in Afghanistan. IK does not follow this belief of prostrating before the Americans like previous governments did.

Pak has only suffered dead bodies, drones and massive financial losses at the hands of America. By comparison Pak military whatever they have done has been to little and too late. Even today the American's keep supporting the Pak Taliban sitting in Afghanistan in attacking Pakistan. Not saying we can completely end relations with them but there has to be a much greater balance here instead of bowing down to all their demands like Pak has always done.

It can be difficult to juggle between two fierce rivals like China and America. I do not believe in unconditional friendship with China either.

 

[Chief Destroyer]

Russia is a global non entity surviving solely on its past reputation and the fact that no one wants to involve itself in that geographic part of the world

Please educate yourself on Russia instead of taking in western media garbage.

 

[Chief Destroyer]

Yes, most crucial visit to any country. Hopefully, the two countries can grow closer, inshaAllah.

 

[ElRaja]

You want Pak to keep begging the usual suspects? We will soon be living in a bipolar world with America no longer being the big daddy after it's humiliation in Afghanistan. IK does not follow this belief of prostrating before the Americans like previous governments did.

Pak has only suffered dead bodies, drones and massive financial losses at the hands of America. By comparison Pak military whatever they have done has been to little and too late. Even today the American's keep supporting the Pak Taliban sitting in Afghanistan in attacking Pakistan. Not saying we can completely end relations with them but there has to be a much greater balance here instead of bowing down to all their demands like Pak has always done.

It can be difficult to juggle between two fierce rivals like China and America. I do not believe in unconditional friendship with China either.

its not about choice, pak is long term insolvent without external suport, until Pakistan can have a positive current account (i.e. exports greater than imports), pak will remain totally reliant on foreign countries and foreign investors bailing it out.

u may believe IK is different but he's cant fight reality, pakistans current account deficit got a slight boost from covid, but as long as pakistans economy is fundamentally under developed he will have no choice but to kowtow to the IMF, America, global banks, etc. if he stays in power.

 

[SpiritOf1903]

Stand with the oppressed eh

 

[realitygaf]

Please educate yourself on Russia instead of taking in western media garbage.

Why aren’t you posting this in Russian and in English

 

[PakLFC]

its not about choice, pak is long term insolvent without external suport, until Pakistan can have a positive current account (i.e. exports greater than imports), pak will remain totally reliant on foreign countries and foreign investors bailing it out.

u may believe IK is different but he's cant fight reality, pakistans current account deficit got a slight boost from covid, but as long as pakistans economy is fundamentally under developed he will have no choice but to kowtow to the IMF, America, global banks, etc. if he stays in power.

The support comes from Allah that our country was supposedly built on the name of Islam. So let us be dependent on Turkey, China and even Russia instead of America who has only caused us harm. You want them to keep killing our people in exchange for giving us aid?

At least IK is trying and not openly begging the American's for money like previous governments were. He is talking about having some self respect and dignity. He can not produce miracles that I agree but your belief of being American slaves is equally absurd.

 

[ElRaja]

The support comes from Allah that our country was supposedly built on the name of Islam. So let us be dependent on Turkey, China and even Russia instead of America who has only caused us harm. You want them to keep killing our people in exchange for giving us aid?

if Pak pays off all the dollars they have borrowed, including billions under the current government then they can choose to deal with whoever they want to. As long as Pak owe America and American institutions billions of dollars Pakistan does not have that choice, no matter what optics are projected.

At least IK is trying and not openly begging the American's for money like previous governments were. He is talking about having some self respect and dignity. He can not produce miracles that I agree but your belief of being American slaves is equally absurd.

so then its simple, stop borrowing more dollars, yet borrowing under him has hit record levels. theres legitimate reasons why this has happened, however just managing optics to project self-respect and dignity is kinda a zero-sum game IMO, but if you attach value to it then that's your prerogative, and it's fair enough.

 

[Chief Destroyer]

if Pak pays off all the dollars they have borrowed, including billions under the current government then they can choose to deal with whoever they want to. As long as Pak owe America and American institutions billions of dollars Pakistan does not have that choice, no matter what optics are projected.



so then its simple, stop borrowing more dollars, yet borrowing under him has hit record levels. theres legitimate reasons why this has happened, however just managing optics to project self-respect and dignity is kinda a zero-sum game IMO, but if you attach value to it then that's your prerogative, and it's fair enough.

Nobody's paying anyone back. The whole world is in massive debt including China and USA. Paper money is on the verge of collapse and everybody knows it. Hence why USA has been printing money like a madman in the last two years not caring one bit. USA has squeezed out as much as it could.

 

[ElRaja]

Nobody's paying anyone back. The whole world is in massive debt including China and USA. Paper money is on the verge of collapse and everybody knows it. Hence why USA has been printing money like a madman in the last two years not caring one bit. USA has squeezed out as much as it could.

sure, i agree with you, on the first part at least. but as long as u are part of the system u have to have the USA on side.

 

[PakLFC]

if Pak pays off all the dollars they have borrowed, including billions under the current government then they can choose to deal with whoever they want to. As long as Pak owe America and American institutions billions of dollars Pakistan does not have that choice, no matter what optics are projected.



so then its simple, stop borrowing more dollars, yet borrowing under him has hit record levels. theres legitimate reasons why this has happened, however just managing optics to project self-respect and dignity is kinda a zero-sum game IMO, but if you attach value to it then that's your prerogative, and it's fair enough.

We do have a choice as can be seen at the moment. No longer are we rushing to America for this and that. Naturally we owe the Americans that does not mean we agree to all their absurd demands of supporting terrorism inside Pak and letting them kill our people in millions. That is the point here.

We can not allow them to blackmail us by killing our people in exchange for being their slaves. Need to take a stance here by saying we will return the debt but not at the expense of spilling our blood for you like you are suggesting.

 

[PakLFC]

After 9/11 the Americans had a "to do" list for Pakistan. Even they were surprised when Musharraf agreed to all their demands. It is all about attitude here as well where we are willing to give much more then what is asked. The Americans fully well realize this hence their comment years back that "Pakistanis would sell their mother's for dollars". Pakistan's mentality has too change, no one respects someone like Pak who agree's to everything the American's always say.

 

[Local.Dada]

Guys like Putin will not give out a penny unless they see a benefit. I am sure there is some give and take here. Wonder what Imran will offer in return? That’s not a dig at Pakistani economy etc but given the current war climate I am sure there is some deal on the table.

Even Muslim countries don’t give handouts and deals to fellow Muslim countries unless there is profit, just imagine dealing with a guy like Putin

 

[PakLFC]

I meant we must stop allowing them to kill our people in exchange for dollars. I am so disappointed with Pakistanis here who feel we should just agree to what the American's say because of the debt we owe them. It is this slave mentality that does not allow Pakistan to become self dependent.

 

[MenInG]

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday said Pakistan will not play “camp politics” as it wanted to have trade relations with all countries to lift its populace out of poverty.

In an interview with Russia’s state-owned media outlet, Russia Today, the prime minister talked about the illicit outflow of wealth from the developing world, climate change, the Russia-Ukraine conflict and ties between Islamabad and Moscow.

Speaking about the Cold War that “ravaged” the world from the 1950s to the 90s, Imran said Pakistan initially had joined a camp because it needed money after the influx of millions of refugees in the aftermath of partition.

"But the country should have left the US camp after a decade or so and pursued an independent policy," he said, calling reliance on foreign aid “a curse”.

“Such aid stops a country from evolving and developing and becoming self-reliant,” he said, adding that the reliance on hand-outs stops a country from becoming independent.

According to the premier, Pakistan wanted trade ties with all countries, including its neighbours.

Read Foreign office confirms PM Imran’s ‘landmark’ trip to Russia

Speaking about the past, he said it was not possible to trade with India because of its hostile attitude. Imran added that trade ties with Iran and Afghanistan could not be developed because of sanctions and a decades-long conflict, respectively.

"Similarly, Pakistan could not establish trade relations with the Central Asian States because of its proximity to the US and theirs to the Soviet Union," he added.

However, this time, Pakistan will not join any camp, the PM said, adding that trade is the priority of Islamabad for the sake of its population. “What we want now is to trade with everyone,” he said, adding that the main focus of every head of state should be to raise people out of poverty.

Russian gas pipeline project

About the gas pipeline project with Russia amid the threat of sanctions by the US, Imran said the pipeline project suffered because the companies involved in the project had been sanctioned by the US.

“Finding a Russian company that was not sanctioned by the US became a problem,” he added.

"Pakistan could also get gas from Iran but it cannot since there were the US sanctions on the country," Imran said, adding that the developing world doesn’t want another cold war because of the consequences for the developing countries.

Read More: Gas pipeline projects among PM’s Russia visit agenda

“I have to say the developing world really wishes there’s not another cold war…how do we go ahead,” he said, adding that half of the population of Pakistan is below the poverty line.

“The last thing we want is the world divided into blocks and sanctions,” he said.

If there is a commodity supercycle or if there’s a shock like Covid-19, the other half will also start going below the poverty line, he said alluding to the prospect of another cold war.

Ukraine-Russia crisis

PM Imran said that he is "hoping the Ukraine crisis resolves peacefully”.

“If we read reports in the western media there is an imminent war between Russia and Ukraine…on the cards. And clearly, western countries take a very oppositional, I would even say inimical view to Russia," claimed Imran.

"For a shrewd politician like yourself, don’t you think perhaps it is too precarious of a time to expand Pakistan’s geopolitical horizon,” the interview asked.

“It doesn’t concern us, we have bilateral relations with Russia and we really want to strengthen it,” Imran responded to the question.

He added the countries do not develop in isolation but it is the whole region that develops like the European Union.

“We hope that sanctions are lifted on Iran as we are short of gas here,” he said, adding that he hoped the Indian government will focus on lifting people out of poverty rather than proving to the world that Hindus are superior.

Read Also: Putin orders Russian troops to Ukrainian breakaway regions

In response to a question about being a neutral country amid conflict between global powers, Imran said he did not believe the military solution could be applied to resolve the conflict. “I believe civilised societies resolve their difference through dialogues,” he added.

The PM said in case there’s another cold war, the developing world will suffer. He referred to the rise in oil prices because of the threat of war between Russia and Ukraine.

Imran maintained that Ukraine and Russia supply wheat to the world, "imagine if there’s conflict what will happen to the poorer countries" already reeling from the impact of the Covid-19, questioned the premier.

Money laundering and Kashmir dispute

The PM also talked about money laundering by the ruling elite of the developing world, saying the illicit outflow of cash and climate change were the two biggest challenges faced by the world.

He said the global powers should make laws to curb the illegal flow of money from the developing world just like they have legislated to curb terror financing and drug money.

Speaking about Kashmir, he said he reached out to India in 2018 to resolve the Kashmir issue. “I told them our only issue is Kashmir. Let’s sit down at [the] table and resolve it,” Imran said, adding that he knew “India better than most people”.

However, India has been taken over a “mad” and “racist” ideology inspired by the Nazis, Imran said, adding that the founding fathers of the ruling party in India were inspired by the Nazi ideology.

 

[gani999]

Guys like Putin will not give out a penny unless they see a benefit. I am sure there is some give and take here. Wonder what Imran will offer in return? That’s not a dig at Pakistani economy etc but given the current war climate I am sure there is some deal on the table.

Even Muslim countries don’t give handouts and deals to fellow Muslim countries unless there is profit, just imagine dealing with a guy like Putin

Russia is merely looking for a new market for its weapons industry. That's it. Given that China is now Pakistan's main supplier, I doubt they'll go much further there.

 

[hoshiarpurexpress]

Significant visit and what a time to go.

 

[Syed1]

Guys like Putin will not give out a penny unless they see a benefit. I am sure there is some give and take here. Wonder what Imran will offer in return? That’s not a dig at Pakistani economy etc but given the current war climate I am sure there is some deal on the table.

Even Muslim countries don’t give handouts and deals to fellow Muslim countries unless there is profit, just imagine dealing with a guy like Putin

Russia is building a $2b North-South gas pipeline through Pakistan, connecting port of Karachi with population centers in the North. Pakistan will also invite Russia to participate in the privatization of the Steel Mills (which was constructed by the former Soviet Union). Already Chinese companies are lined up to take it over, but better to have more options.



Maybe the hindutva newsletter from which you get your worldview, missed that part.

 

[MenInG]

Prime Minister Imran Khan is set to embark on what is dubbed a landmark and historic visit to Russia today (Wednesday) with officials acknowledging that Pakistan needs “deft diplomacy” given the current Ukrainian crisis.

Imran Khan will be the first Pakistani prime minister to undertake a bilateral visit to Moscow in 23 years. The visit is part of efforts by the two sides spanning over a decade to bury their cold-war rivalry and enter into a new era of cooperation.

Russia and Pakistan were in opposite camps during the "Afghan Jihad" though now both have convergence on the way forward for Afghanistan.

The historic visit, however, is likely to be overshadowed by the brewing conflict between Russia and Ukraine that pitted Moscow against the West.

“There is no doubt that the West will closely follow our prime minister’s visit. Every word and statement he makes in Moscow will be scrutinised. That’s where we need deft diplomacy,” commented a senior diplomat while requesting anonymity.
The diplomat cautioned that any misstep could have serious backlash for the country.

The debate is raging in Pakistan with some questioning the timing of the visit. But the Foreign Office sources said the visit was planned well in advance before the current crisis. Therefore, it was not wise to postpone or cancel the trip at the last minute.

Nevertheless, the government was advised to tread carefully and was told not to take any steps that may give the impression that Pakistan is taking sides in the highly fluid situation.

Ahead of the prime minister’s visit, the Ukrainian ambassador to Islamabad sought Pakistan’s help to defuse the tension between Moscow and Kyiv. The Ukrainian envoy requested Pakistan’s assistance in case Russia invades Ukraine.

While the relationship between Pakistan and Russia has seen improvement in recent years, Islamabad also has longstanding ties particularly in the defence field with Kyiv.

In what appears to be a balancing act, Pakistan’s ambassador to Kyiv Major General Noel Israel Khokar met Ukrainian first deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Emine Dzheppar on Monday. The Ukrainian deputy foreign minister in a tweet said Pakistani envoy expressed support for the “sovergnity and territorial integrity” of Ukraine.

Mindful of the sensitivities involved, the Prime Minister told Russian-state owned television network RT on Tuesday that Pakistan hoped for a “peaceful solution” to the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

"I am not a believer in military conflicts. I believe the civilised societies resolve the difference through dialogues and countries that rely on military conflicts have not studied history properly," the PM told Russian TV ahead of his departure to Moscow.

PM Imran said he was sure that people in Ukraine and Russia were aware of the consequences of an impending conflict.

Outlining Pakistan’s policy, the prime minister made it clear that Islamabad was opposed to “bloc politics” as it suffered in the past because of this approach.

The Foreign Office in a statement said the prime minister will be accompanied by a high-level delegation, including the members of his cabinet. The bilateral summit will be the highlight of the visit.

“Pakistan and Russia enjoy friendly relations marked by mutual respect, trust and convergence of views on a range of international and regional issues,” read the official handout.

During the Summit meeting, the two leaders will review the entire array of bilateral relations including energy cooperation. They will also have a wide-ranging exchange of views on major regional and international issues, including Islamophobia and the situation in Afghanistan.

“The visit of the prime minister will contribute to further deepening of the multifaceted Pakistan-Russia bilateral relationship and enhancement of mutual cooperation in diverse fields,” the statement further said.

 

[MenInG]

Underscoring the need for Pakistan to play its role in resolving the Ukraine issue, the Ukrainian Ambassador to Pakistan Markian Chuchuk reiterated that Russia wants to invade Kyiv.

Speaking to journalists, he said that Prime Minister Imran Khan should raise this issue during his two-day visit to Moscow, as it [Pakistan] is a nuclear power and it should play its role in the resolution of the ongoing conflict.

He said that the Russian attacks will spread tensions around the world and will negatively affect business around the world.

According to a statement issued by the Embassy of Ukraine in Pakistan, the ongoing escalation in Ukrainian-Russian relations is not a matter of just the last few months.

“Ukraine has been facing external military aggression for eight years, since February 20, 2014,” it said, adding that since then, as a result of Russian hybrid invasion, parts of the sovereign territory of Ukraine (the Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol as well as certain territories of Donetsk and Luhansk regions) remain under temporary foreign occupation.

The ambassador said that since November 2021, the Russian Federation has been consistently amassing troops along the border with Ukraine, waging military drills in close proximity to Ukrainian borders, extending a range of “security demands” to Ukraine and its international partners as well as NATO.

According to the latest estimations, the Russian contingent of armed forces is totalling about 107,000 troops stationed along Ukraine’s borders and in Crimea, 122,000 troops amassed at a distance of 200 km and more than 143,000 at a distance of 400 km and could potentially be ready for offensive against Ukraine at any moment.

“Despite the efforts of Ukraine and the international community, Russian Federation hasn’t given a clear explanation for presence its troops near Ukrainian border and could not provide clear and convincing evidence of the withdrawal of its troops,” the statement read.

The embassy said that Ukraine considers such Russian military presence as unprovoked and unjustified, particularly, as it leads to deteriorating security situation on temporary occupied territories of Donbas.

The Russian armed formations have unleashed provocative firing along the entire length of the contact line in Donbas, significantly aggravating the already tense security situation.

 

[MenInG]

When Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan Niazi was in Beijing for the Winter Olympics this month, he reiterated Islamabad’s carte blanche support to China on its harsh policies towards Muslim majority Sinkiang, Buddhist majority Tibet and Hong Kong.

During his four-day visit, the former swing bowler stamped approval yet again on “One China” policy and on Beijing’s claim on South China Sea. He railed against the west and stood up to defend the Chinese Belt Road Initiative, which President Xi Jinping described as a part of community of shared destiny in a 2013 speech.

Today, when the entire US-led west has slammed the Russian intervention in two breakaway mini-republics in Ukraine and even China has not come out in open support of Moscow, PM Imran Khan is slated to go on a two-day trip to meet President Vladimir Putin.

It will be interesting to watch how PM Khan, famous for swinging cricket ball both ways, diplomatically manoeuvres the Ukraine minefield in Moscow with all western eyes on the Pakistani leader. The last Pakistan PM to visit Russia was Nawaz Sharif in March 1999, on the eve of Kargil war.

While Niazi has tried to set aside the timing of the visit by saying that it was decided before the Ukraine crisis, the Pakistani leader may find himself between a rock and a hard place as the entire western bloc will take very unkindly if he ends up justifying Ukraine gambit of President Putin.

As Pak PM’s criticism of the Russian move is out of question, he will be walking on the razor’s edge throughout the trip and will try and avoid reference to Ukraine crisis in the joint statement. For the record, the focus will be the humanitarian crisis in third country Afghanistan and recognition of the Islamist Taliban government occupying Kabul since the US led forces departed hurriedly on August 15, 2021.

https://www.hindustantimes.com/worl...khan-during-russia-visit-101645594564622.html

 

[MenInG]

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday arrived in Russia on a two-day official visit, at the invitation of President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin.

The prime minister is accompanied by a high-level delegation including federal ministers Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Chaudhry Fawad Hussain, Asad Umar, Hammad Azhar, Commerce Adviser Abdur Razzak Dawood, National Security Adviser Moeed Yusuf and Amir Mahmood Kiani.

Deputy Foreign Minister of Russia Igor Morgulov and other high-level Russian officials welcomed the premier and the Pakistani delegation.

A guard of honour was given to the prime minister and the Pakistani delegation by the armed forces of the Russian Federation. The delegation was given a red carpet welcome by the Russian authorities.

After a span of two decades, this is the first official visit of any Pakistani prime minister to Russia.

Read more: Moscow-Islamabad set to write new chapter in bilateral ties

The bilateral summit will be the highlight of the visit. During the summit meeting, the two leaders will review the entire array of bilateral relations including energy cooperation, according to Foreign Office.

They will also have a wide-ranging exchange of views on major regional and international issues, including Islamophobia and the situation in Afghanistan.

The prime minister’s visit will contribute to the further deepening of the multifaceted Pakistan-Russia bilateral relationship and enhancement of mutual cooperation in diverse fields.

Also read: PM Imran's visit to Moscow will strengthen relations: Fawad

Pakistan-Russia relations have made impressive progress over the past two decades. There has been regular interaction between the two sides at the highest level as well as the working level.

Prime Minister Imran has spoken thrice to President Putin on August 25, 2021, September 14, 2021 and January 17, 2022. The prime minister has also extended an invitation to President Putin to visit Pakistan.


Analysts believe premier’s visit to the Russian capital marks the beginning of a new era in ties between the former foes – particularly after the abrupt withdrawal of US forces from Afghanistan last year.

“Bilateral relations have never been this good. Although there is a long road ahead, the progress that Russia and Pakistan have made in such a short amount of time is impressive,” said Andrew Korybko, a Moscow-based political analyst.

“It is especially symbolic that these former Cold War-era rivals came together due to shared concerns about threats emerging from Afghanistan – considering that they once fought a proxy war there,” Korybko said via email.

Also read: PM Imran advised ‘deft diplomacy’ during Russia visit

Ties between Pakistan and Russia, he explained, have improved significantly since 2014 – after Moscow lifted its arms embargo on Islamabad in a bid to help improve its anti-terrorist capabilities.

“The entrance of Islamic State Khorasan (IS-K) to Afghanistan was a game-changer that served to accelerate their already fast-moving rapprochement,” he added.

Korybko, who specialises in the relationship between the US strategy in Afro-Eurasia, China's Belt and Road Initiative noted that Islamabad's defence ties with Moscow have moved past the Soviet-era hostilities in recent years.

“Russia and Pakistan have been carrying out annual joint anti-terrorist drills. This served to further increase trust between their armed forces and their permanent bureaucracies more broadly.”

During the Cold War – particularly after the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, Islamabad aligned itself with Washington. That irked the leadership in Moscow. More recently, after the US invasion of Afghanistan in 2001, relations between Pakistan and Russia plunged again, as Islamabad was given major non-NATO ally status by Washington.

Read more: PM Imran says Pakistan will not play camp politics, calls foreign aid a ‘curse’

According to experts, the recent shift in the relations between Pakistan and the US has pushed the country to seek better ties with Russia. The cooperation between the two sides entered a new phase shortly after US troops left Afghanistan in 2021.

Policy makers around the world, Korybko said, are fully aware that no serious player can achieve anything meaningful in Afghanistan without Pakistan’s support. “Claims to the contrary are nothing but information warfare intended to manipulate mass perceptions about that country. Decision makers, however, know that such a narrative has no basis in reality.”

Russia and Pakistan, the expert said, will continue to coordinate their diplomatic approaches to Afghanistan’s de facto Taliban-led government as well as solutions to that country’s impending humanitarian crisis.

In Korybko view, Pakistan’s future outlook aligns much more closely with Russia and China than the US. “For this reason, Pakistan is expected to further enhance its cooperation with those two, potentially even on a trilateral or broader basis, not to mention the already existing bilateral ones,” said the Moscow-based expert.

 

[Romali_rotti]

Talk about an ill timed visit, feel sorry for Imran.

Visiting Russia during this mess, if Imran gets to meet Putin and gives him full support it will annoy the west, if he doesn't give full support to Russia, then this trip would be a total waste..

 

[pillionrider]

He took time out to groom himself, so looks like he means business

 

[shortbread]

Terrible timing or bad luck.

Either that or he was simply set up, IK went to Russia with good honest intentions.

Hope the diplomats in his entourage play this smartly, especially if he's asked to appear in a media presser with Putin.

Say the right rehearsed lines and get out, no off the shoulder comments.

 

[transparent opacity]

US has informed Pakistan about ‘Ukraine position’

WASHINGTON:
The United States has communicated to Pakistan its position regarding Russia’s further invasion of Ukraine, State Department spokesperson Ned Price said on Wednesday, as Prime Minister Imran Khan embarked on a two-day trip to Moscow for talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

“We believe it's a responsibility of every responsible country around the world to voice concern, to voice objection, to what Putin appears to have in mind for Ukraine,” Price said.

Price told reporters the United States would be willing to engage in diplomacy with Moscow if it shows de-escalation on Ukraine.

Western countries have been warning for weeks about the possibility of the bloodiest war in Europe for decades.

Prime Minister Imran Khan will meet Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday (today). During the summit meeting, the two leaders will review the entire spectrum of bilateral relations including energy cooperation, according to the Foreign Office.

They will also have a wide-ranging exchange of views on major regional and international issues, including Islamophobia and the situation in Afghanistan.

Russia's military operation in Ukraine

Russian forces fired missiles at several Ukrainian cities and landed troops on its south coast on Thursday, officials and media said, after President Vladimir Putin authorised what he called a special military operation in the east.

Shortly after Putin spoke in a televised address on Russian state TV, explosions could be heard in the pre-dawn quiet of the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv. Gunfire rattled near the capital's main airport, the Interfax news agency said.

https://tribune.com.pk/story/2345069/us-has-informed-pakistan-about-ukraine-position

 

[transparent opacity]

Putin to meet PM Imran Khan in three-hour long meeting amid Ukraine crisis

Prime Minister Imran Khan will see Russian President Vladimir Putin in a one-on-one three-hour long meeting today at 3pm Pakistan time, amid the Ukraine-Russia crisis, Geo News reported.

PM Khan will discuss issues including economic cooperation hours after a number of Western nations hit Russia with new sanctions for its military deployment into parts of eastern Ukraine.

Prime Minister Imran Khan arrived in Moscow on a two-day official visit yesterday, where he was received at the airport by Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister and presented with a guard of honor at the airport.

PM Imran Khan will push for the construction of a long-delayed, multi-billion-dollar gas pipeline to be built in collaboration with Russian companies, an official told Reuters.

"Both countries are eager to launch the project at the earliest," Pakistan's energy ministry spokesman told Reuters about the Pakistan Stream gas pipeline. He confirmed that Energy Minister Hammad Azhar is accompanying Khan on the visit.

The 1,100 km (683 mile)-long pipeline, also known as the North-South gas pipeline, was initially agreed to in 2015 and was to be financed by both Moscow and Islamabad, using a Russian company to construct it.

In an interview ahead of his trip, PM Imran Khan had expressed concern about the situation in Ukraine and the possibility of new sanctions and their effect on Islamabad's budding cooperation with Moscow.

It is unclear how the latest sanctions will affect the project, which would deliver imported Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) from Karachi on the Arabian Sea coast to power plants in Punjab.

 

[MenInG]

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan landed in Moscow for a two-day visit on Wednesday night, hours before Russian President Vladimir Putin authorised an attack on Ukrain in culmination to the ongoing tension between Russia and Ukraine. The timing of Imran Khan's visit has come on the radar and now a video of Pakistan PM's conversation as soon as he landed in Moscow has surfaced. "What a time I have come, so much excitement," Imran Khan said interacting with the members of the delegation that welcomed him. Imran Khan can also be heard saying, "I am so excited to come to Moscow." Russian deputy foreign minister Igor Morgulov received Imran Khan at the airport where the Russian military presented a guard of honour to him.

Imran Khan is in Moscow for a day apparently tp push for the construction of a multi-billion-dollar gas pipeline which is to be built in collaboration with Russian companies. Imran Khan was also slated to have a luncheon with Putin on Thursday and after his scheduled meeting, he was scheduled to be departing for Islamabad at 11.30pm.

https://www.hindustantimes.com/worl...-declares-war-on-ukraine-101645695091160.html

<div style="width: 100%; height: 0px; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.306%;"><iframe src="https://streamable.com/e/60lyc4" frameborder="0" width="100%" height="100%" allowfullscreen style="width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;"></iframe></div>

 

[Forward Defensive Push]

It appears he was simply set up. Such a shame because the man went with good intentions. Unfortunately the world doesn't work on ideals and you need to have play it smartly..

 

[Sidilicious]

It appears he was simply set up. Such a shame because the man went with good intentions. Unfortunately the world doesn't work on ideals and you need to have play it smartly..

Setup? Why would the Russians set him up?

Its just bad luck.

 

[Forward Defensive Push]

Setup? Why would the Russians set him up?

Its just bad luck.

I feel he was used as a diversionary tactic so the opposition was not prepared for launch of war today. But yes, it could just be sheer bad luck

 

[RexRex]

View attachment 115024

He took time out to groom himself, so looks like he means business

What a charmer IK is, even the wrinkles on his face have vanished. I wouldn't be surprised if he used a bit of Botox before meeting his new buddy Putin...something about first impressions being the best

 

[hoshiarpurexpress]

What are the chances of FATF Blacklist incoming for Pakistan after these images of Imran with Putin flashing across the western world ?

 

[MenInG]

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Thursday laid a floral wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Moscow in a tribute to the casualties of World War II as Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry debunked "speculation" regarding the premier's visit being cut short amid Ukraine-Russia tensions.

In a tweet, the information minister said the premier's "visit is proceeding and PM will return to Pakistan tonight as per schedule."

Chaudhry's clarification came after a report by Associated Press claimed that the prime minister was ending his Moscow trip.

PM Imran arrived in Moscow yesterday on a two-day official visit, where he was greeted by Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Igor Morgulov upon his arrival. He was also presented a guard of honour.

The premier is expected to hold a key meeting with Russian President Vladimir today.

According to Dawn News correspondent Adil Shahzeb, who is currently in Moscow, the PM will hold an "important meeting" with Putin at 3pm (Pakistan time), while the duration of his meeting has been extended to three hours from previously scheduled one.

However, he quoted some diplomatic sources as saying the PM's schedule could be changed at any time.

Radio Pakistan reported that PM Imran will exchange views on international and regional issues during his meeting with Putin. The two leaders are also expected to discuss bilateral relations, especially cooperation in the energy sector. Matters pertaining to Islamophobia and the situation in Afghanistan may also come under discussion.

The last Pakistani premier to visit Russia was Nawaz Sharif in March 1999, while former president Asif Ali Zardari came to Moscow in 2011.

PM Imran's visit is viewed by many in and outside Pakistan with much anticipation though the Pakistan government terms it a prelude to greater relationship in strategic, energy and regional connectivity.

The timing of the visit has been discussed threadbare but top Pakistani government officials term it one of the rarest opportunities for the energy-starved country to make headway in energy, regional connectivity and role in Afghanistan post US withdrawal.

National Security Adviser Moeed Yusuf, however, had rejected the notion about the timing of the visit. “Yes there is a global tension but our visit is of bilateral nature and the similar path was taken in the visit to China where economy, economic indicators and connectivity was at the heart of that tour,” he had said.

 

[MenInG]

What are the chances of FATF Blacklist incoming for Pakistan after these images of Imran with Putin flashing across the western world ?

You mean you are hoping this will happen.

Our of interest, what will FATF's objections be to Pakistan PM visiting Russia?

 

[hoshiarpurexpress]

You mean you are hoping this will happen.

Our of interest, what will FATF's objections be to Pakistan PM visiting Russia?

FATF is a political tool used by US and allies to get countries to force what they want.

What valid objections are there currently to put Pakistan on a grey list ?

 

[RajBan]

What are the chances of FATF Blacklist incoming for Pakistan after these images of Imran with Putin flashing across the western world ?

I won't rule this out later. It won't happen right now.

This move also conveys that Russia is insensitive to the effort put by the Pakistan counterpart. There was no reason why they could not have waited 3-4 days to declare the war and invade Ukraine. It's very clear that Russia is trying to be overtly aggressive, they likely would not have taken time with Chinese , French or German primier visiting Moscow.

 

[Manunited18]

What are the chances of FATF Blacklist incoming for Pakistan after these images of Imran with Putin flashing across the western world ?

Your sole wish is for Pakistan to be put on the FATF black list, how desperate can one get.

 

[MenInG]

Prime Minister Imran Khan, who is on a two-day visit to Moscow, has begun his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, state media reported.

PM Imran will exchange views on international and regional issues during his meeting with Putin, according to Radio Pakistan. The two leaders are also expected to discuss bilateral relations, especially cooperation in the energy sector.

Matters pertaining to Islamophobia and the situation in Afghanistan may also come under discussion.

Before the meeting, Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry, who is part of PM Imran's delegation in Moscow, confirmed that the premier was on his way to meet President Putin, debunking "speculation" regarding the premier's visit being cut short amid Ukraine-Russia tensions.

Sharing the update on Twitter, Chaudhry said after the meeting between both leaders, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Valentinovich Novak would call on PM Imran and the delegation accompanying him at the hotel where they are staying.

In a tweet, the information minister said the premier's "visit is proceeding and PM will return to Pakistan tonight as per schedule".

Chaudhry's clarification came after a report by Associated Press claimed that the prime minister was ending his Moscow trip.

Earlier today (Thursday), PM Imran laid a floral wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Moscow in a tribute to the casualties of World War II.

PM Imran arrived in Moscow yesterday on a two-day official visit, where he was greeted by Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Igor Morgulov upon his arrival. He was also presented a guard of honour.

According to Dawn News correspondent Adil Shahzeb, who is currently in Moscow, the PM's "important meeting" with Putin has been extended to three hours, which was earlier scheduled for an hour.

However, he quoted some diplomatic sources as saying the PM's schedule could be changed at any time.

Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi met his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov in Moscow as both the leaders reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries, according to a statement from the Foreign Office.

Qureshi said Pakistan attaches special importance to bilateral relations with Russia. He said relations between Pakistan and Russia have gradually strengthened.

Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi along with other officials hold a meeting with his Russian counterpart in Moscow on Thursday. — Picture via Foreign Office
"Pakistan pursues economic priorities and promotes regional ties in the light of PM Imran Khan's vision," Qureshi told his Russian counterpart.

Lavrov congratulated Qureshi and Pakistani leadership on the success of the OIC's Council of Foreign Ministers on Afghanistan held in Islamabad in December last year and also expressed best wishes regarding the upcoming meeting of the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers in Islamabad next month.

The last Pakistani premier to visit Russia was Nawaz Sharif in March 1999, while former president Asif Ali Zardari came to Moscow in 2011.

PM Imran's visit is viewed by many in and outside Pakistan with much anticipation though the Pakistan government terms it a prelude to greater relationship in strategic, energy and regional connectivity.

The timing of the visit has been discussed threadbare but top Pakistani government officials term it one of the rarest opportunities for the energy-starved country to make headway in energy, regional connectivity and role in Afghanistan post US withdrawal.

National Security Adviser Moeed Yusuf, however, had rejected the notion about the timing of the visit. “Yes there is a global tension but our visit is of bilateral nature and the similar path was taken in the visit to China where economy, economic indicators and connectivity was at the heart of that tour,” he had said.

 

[Syed1]

Your sole wish is for Pakistan to be put on the FATF black list, how desperate can one get.

Considering how Pakistan is more compliant of the FATF then even the countries presiding over FATF tells you how big of a political tool it is.


There will not be any justification to put Pakistan on the blacklist. Also blacklists cannot be populated on the whims of a country, sadly for our friendly neighbours other countries have to vote to put a country in a blacklist and "isolated" Pakistan has enough friends to prevent that from happening.

 

[Syed1]

LOL at the people slitting wrists over "timing of trip".... these trips are planned months in advance. IK was not going to the grocery store that he just got up and left. Postponing or cancelling the trip would have been an even worse look and would have ruined the already sensitive relations between Pakistan and Russia.

People (mostly Indians and US worshippers) who are having an issue with the visit will forget that IK visited during Ukraine invasion, but Russia would not have forgotten the insult for decades had IK cancelled at the 11th hour.


Finally we have a leader in Pakistan who is pursuing an independent foreign policy and making sure we safeguard our own self interests and this not easily digestible for the usual suspects.

 

[Local.Dada]

Gotta give it to Putin. What makes him even more dangerous is he is evil with intelligence.

He just attacked a country and is bombing the hell out of its cities while sitting in a meeting with Imran Khan like it’s just another day.

Unenviable position for IK to be in. He can’t look too cheerful in the pictures which may give a wrong message nor can he rub Putin the wrong way.

 

[MenInG]

Prime Minister Imran Khan held one-on-one meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow and discussed matters of mutual interest as well as prevailing situation in South Asia, according to a statement issued by the Russian foreign ministry.

“Both the leaders discussed the main aspects of bilateral cooperation and exchange views on current regional topics, including developments in South Asia,” read the brief statement.

Earlier, the Foreign Office had said that both the leaders would review the entire spectrum of bilateral relations including energy cooperation.

They will also have a wide-ranging exchange of views on major regional and international issues, including Islamophobia and the situation in Afghanistan.

The statement added that the two leaders will review the entire array of bilateral relations including economic and energy cooperation, particularly the Pakistan Gas Stream Project.

The regional situation including the unfolding Ukraine crisis will also come under discussion, reported APP.

PM Imran Khan, earlier on his arrival at Kremlin – the executive headquarters of the Russian Federation, was warmly received by President Putin.

After meeting with Putin, Information Minister Fawad said the Russian deputy premier will call on PM Imran at a hotel where he is staying with his delegation.


This is the first bilateral visit by a Pakistani prime minister to Russia after a gap of 23 years and is being termed as a historic step to renew relations between the two countries.

Earlier today, the premier laid a floral wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Moscow as a tribute to the Russian casualties of World War 2 as he continued his official visit to the country.

The prime minister is in Moscow as Russia escalated its actions towards Ukraine and launched a full-scale attack on the eastern European country earlier today.

However, Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry dismissed rumours that the prime minister was cutting short his visit and said the speculations are "misplaced".

According to the information minister, the visit is "proceeding and the PM will return to Pakistan tonight as per schedule".

The premier reached Russia on Wednesday night and was accorded a red carpet welcome upon his arrival at the invitation of President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin.

Upon arrival at the airport, the prime minister and his delegation were warmly received by Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister Igor Morgulov and the high officials of the Pakistan Embassy. The prime minister was also given a guard of honour.

This is the first visit by a Pakistani prime minister in more than two decades. The visit will contribute to the further deepening the multifaceted Pakistan-Russia relationship and enhancement of mutual cooperation in diverse fields.

 

[Varun]

Let's just say his timing as a batsman was better than as a politician.

 

[LaLoco]

LOL at the people slitting wrists over "timing of trip".... these trips are planned months in advance. IK was not going to the grocery store that he just got up and left. Postponing or cancelling the trip would have been an even worse look and would have ruined the already sensitive relations between Pakistan and Russia.

People (mostly Indians and US worshippers) who are having an issue with the visit will forget that IK visited during Ukraine invasion, but Russia would not have forgotten the insult for decades had IK cancelled at the 11th hour.


Finally we have a leader in Pakistan who is pursuing an independent foreign policy and making sure we safeguard our own self interests and this not easily digestible for the usual suspects.

The same usual suspects (particularly Pakistanis) would be quick to take up arms if IK were to cancel the visit, " why is Pakistan meddling in other's affair" would be excuse repeated in every comment.

Pakistan neither endorsed nor criticized it, took a diplomatic stand, which is perfect.

IK did not go there to cheer up Putin, went to Russia for the investment and improve the relationship.

As you have mentioned and if one were to watch Indian media, there obsession with Pak and IK is getting inarguably unhealthy, are having issue.

In long term, Pakistan benefit. In short term, Indian media gets more clicked and longer time spent watching entertainment aka Indian news media.

 

[Cover Drive Six]

View attachment 115024

He took time out to groom himself, so looks like he means business

"What a time I have come, so much excitement", Pakistan PM Imran Khan's first few comments after landing in Moscow, Russia.

So much excitement to visit a war country )

 

[KingKhanWC]

This is a genius move by IK.

Lets remember the Int community is more more than Nato and its lapdogs. China, Russia, Iran, Middle East, South Asia, South American nations are watching and seeing a strong leader, finally stand up to Western state terrorism and western imperialism. This leader atm is speaking to the leader of the only Muslim nuclear nation.

Yanks have said they know this meeting was pre-planned. A declining empire cant really do much more than the crimes it has already inflicted on Pakistan.

The best is Indians are very confused by this )

 

[Cover Drive Six]

FATF is a political tool used by US and allies to get countries to force what they want.

What valid objections are there currently to put Pakistan on a grey list ?

#BREAKING: US Department of Financial Services announces $35 million penalty for National Bank of Pakistan for compliance failure, continuing business in an unsafe/unsound manner, disregard for financial regulatory warning and failure to comply with Anti-Money laundering program.

 

[pillionrider]

"What a time I have come, so much excitement", Pakistan PM Imran Khan's first few comments after landing in Moscow, Russia.

So much excitement to visit a war country )

Seriously man, that was one of the weirdest things I've heard in a while.

"Let me tell you, we're so excited coming to Moscow...."



How the mighty have fallen. I should have stopped following IK the politician after he drove that Gulf King around.

 

[dildilpak]

The optics of the trip dont look good - IK in Russia at a time when Russia is invading Ukraine. A new axis forming- Russia, China, Pak vs ROTW?

 

[Romali_rotti]

#BREAKING: US Department of Financial Services announces $35 million penalty for National Bank of Pakistan for compliance failure, continuing business in an unsafe/unsound manner, disregard for financial regulatory warning and failure to comply with Anti-Money laundering program.

Imran just had the most expensive plane ticket in history, flew to Russia at a cost of $35 Mill.

Yikes..

 

[MenInG]

#BREAKING: US Department of Financial Services announces $35 million penalty for National Bank of Pakistan for compliance failure, continuing business in an unsafe/unsound manner, disregard for financial regulatory warning and failure to comply with Anti-Money laundering program.

Do you actually understand what you are posting here?

What exactly has this got to do with Russia trip?

NBP is being fined for a compliance failure - what is the connection with trip to Russia?

 

[Syed1]

Seriously man, that was one of the weirdest things I've heard in a while.

"Let me tell you, we're so excited coming to Moscow...."



How the mighty have fallen. I should have stopped following IK the politician after he drove that Gulf King around.

IK might be having sleepless nights because Indians have stopped following him

 

[KingKhanWC]

Imran just had the most expensive plane ticket in history, flew to Russia at a cost of $35 Mill.

Yikes..

This has nothing to do with the trip mate lol. This was on the table a while ago.

Btw, would Modi ever visit Russia at this time like IK did?

 

[KingKhanWC]

Aint notin but a G thang

 

[Lego20]

Do you actually understand what you are posting here?

What exactly has this got to do with Russia trip?

NBP is being fined for a compliance failure - what is the connection with trip to Russia?

Its easy to read. Stay away from Russia is the message. Ignore it at your own peril.

 

[LaLoco]

This has nothing to do with the trip mate lol. This was on the table a while ago.

Btw, would Modi ever visit Russia at this time like IK did?

Bhakth going to be Bhakth

 

[Major]

It looks like our PM was set up. The Russians ended up using us.

Is Imran Khan really this gullible?

 

[LaLoco]

Its easy to read. Stay away from Russia is the message. Ignore it at your own peril.

Only for Hindutva, Pakistani won't stop Russia from investing in Pakistan as Pakistan shouldn't. Just as Europe won't stop buying Russian oil and India won't stop doing business with Russia.

There is nothing in between to read unless one is India, their media sensationalize the news and bhatkhs gallop it as if it is kool aid. lol

 

[KingKhanWC]

It looks like our PM was set up. The Russians ended up using us.

Is Imran Khan really this gullible?

lol.

Putin had no idea of the date when military would attack. Its just a coincidence and as I stated earlier, this is good for IK's image around the world. OF course PPP and PLMN , India and other haters will be fooled into thinking otherwise because of their own insecurities.

 

[Major]

I think many posters are forgetting what happened when we did the same thing with Iran. A gas pipeline deal was made done, but there sanctions were placed on them and the gas project never started.

Russia will be getting sanctions, and once sanctions come in place, Pakistan cant pay for the gas pipeline its dreaming of here. Its illegal to pay during sanctions. The funny thing about this whole deal is that the pipeline comes through Afghanistan. The land is already torn apart and they can do damage to the pipeline(if it ever gets built) just like how Bugti used to do so in Baluchistan. Plus, making a pipeline that to through the Wakhan Corridor might cost alot.

The PM was most probably ordered to go by China due to the mounting loans. He wasn't set up by the Russians, but by the chinese. Attack was being launched when our PM saab was landing...

Just a day before the PM is giving a statement supporting Ukraine, so make up your mind atleast.

Now an issue that is going to arise is that how West will interpret this. They might be thinking Pakistan took Russia's side here

 

[Local.Dada]

At least from the pictures seems like Imran has either been advised or he himself is smart enough to keep a poker face in the pictures.

Usually you see a lot of grinning, smiling optics for public consumption when 2 leaders meet.

Can’t blame him. He is caught between a rock and a hard place.

I must say I expected Imran to go off script and say something totally unnecessary but he has handled the situation well from the look of it.

Outside of Pakistan (obviously) and to some extent Indian media no one seems to be too focused on IK here thanks to what Putin has done.

More than business/ bailouts etc the biggest win will be if he can come out of this situation with minimum damage and so far so good I guess.

 

[Syed1]

It looks like our PM was set up. The Russians ended up using us.

Is Imran Khan really this gullible?

Yeah I sure wish Biloo was our PM.

Putin, Biden heck the entirety of world leaders in UN would be coming to Pakistan to meet it

 

[Syed1]

Bhakth going to be Bhakth

Its hilarious how they have an issue with IK's visit.


Seems they think PM of Pakistan needs permission from India to make a visit

 

[Dios]

No one can take this clown seriously anymore when he speaks about Palestine or Kashmir not that anyone did in the first place.

 

[PetroDollars]

It looks like our PM was set up. The Russians ended up using us.

Is Imran Khan really this gullible?

Hes always had a Mr.Bean moment in him,

 

[Lego20]

At least from the pictures seems like Imran has either been advised or he himself is smart enough to keep a poker face in the pictures.

He did well with the face. Too bad the mouth gave up - "So much excitement" !

 

[Major]

Hes always had a Mr.Bean moment in him,

the result of having celebrity pms?

 

[YousafTheBeast]

the result of having celebrity pms?

Can’t be worse than having pm’s through family dynasty.

 

[JaDed]

Can’t be worse than having pm’s through family dynasty.

Ask that of Ukraine, whose President as i was just told in other thread was a comedian .

 

[YousafTheBeast]

Ask that of Ukraine, whose President as i was just told in other thread was a comedian .

A comedian is a far better option than baby Zardari, just ask the people of Sindh.

 

[Romali_rotti]

This has nothing to do with the trip mate lol. This was on the table a while ago.

This imo had everything to with his trip to Russia mate lol, we know the FATF is a farce, to be fair this was done by the Americans to voice their annoyance at Pakistan for being on the Russian side.

Btw, would Modi ever visit Russia at this time like IK did?

PM Modi does not need to go, Putin had already came to India earlier and PM Modi had already let Putin know they would remain neutral and Putin is ok with it. Imran going to Russia and making silly comments like how excited he apparently was upon landing in Russia when a major war is going on the background is not a good look.

...

 

[Romali_rotti]

The PM was most probably ordered to go by China due to the mounting loans. He wasn't set up by the Russians, but by the chinese. Attack was being launched when our PM saab was landing...

The interview I saw Imran do with the Russian media, did sort of cover this, I cant exactly recall what was said but when the journalist said something like the Chinese influence in bringing Russia and Pakistan together, he acknowledged it..

 

[KingKhanWC]

...

Whats with the bold stuff bro ?

Anyway

Basic research will help you out mate..


Department and the Federal Reserve Bank of New York conducted the investigation in 2015. In 2016 they enforced action which the bank accepted.

So unless there is a time machine its clear its no related.

Russia is using Modi to buy weapons. Its absurd to think a smart man like Putin would have any interest in conversing with a dim Modi. IK can hold his own and he did.

It was perfect timing for IK, he caught Putin angry against the west and those who havent backed in clearly like Modi and RSS. Pakistan has walked out of this with huge commitments to energy from Russia among other projects. Energy is the key for the coming decades.

 

[Romali_rotti]

Whats with the bold stuff bro ?



Russia is using Modi to buy weapons. Its absurd to think a smart man like Putin would have any interest in conversing with a dim Modi. IK can hold his own and he did.

Brathaar this is where you turn into a village Pakistani when you say things like this.

There is not much Putin would get from a broke Pakistan led by Imran Khan. So hypothetically even if the 2.5 Billion dollar gas pipeline goes ahead with funding's from China since Pakistan is struggling, the Indian Russian bilateral trade is at 10 billion currently with no payment or debt issues..

Being nationalistic is one thing, but come on now Imran is a nobody in world politics compared to PM Modi, yeah the hardcore Pakistani or the Indian Pseudo Secular would say; Modi is this Modi is that, but the ground reality is, he is in the top 10 most powerful leaders of the world: https://www.forbes.com/powerful-people/list/#tab:overall

Let it go bro, I got no issues with you, lets keep a proper discussion going...