ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Ambassador to Russia Faisal Niaz Tirmizi highlighted the potential for greater cooperation with Russia’s Far East at the Eastern Economic Forum (EEF) 2026.
The annual forum, where Russian President Vladimir Putin chaired the plenary sessions, attracts investment to Russia's Far East and aims to strengthen economic cooperation with countries in the Asia-Pacific region.
Speaking on the panel, “Creative Far East: From Local Brands to Exporting to the Asia-Pacific,” the ambassador highlighted Pakistan’s historical cultural ties with Russia and growing connectivity between the two countries.
Tirmizi referenced Russian cultural artifacts such as the samovar, a traditional metal container used for brewing tea, saying it is present in almost every household in Pakistan.
He drew parallels in connectivity, explaining that the southern Russian cities of Omsk and Tomsk were closer to Islamabad than to Vladivostok, where the forum was being held, or to the Russian capital, Moscow.
“Geographically, we are very close to each other,” the ambassador said.
He observed that cultural exchanges between the two countries were taking place alongside bilateral cooperation in trade, connectivity and media.
“Pakistani creative artists are regularly participating in St. Petersburg, Kazan, Samara, and Vladivostok,” the ambassador said.
He also mentioned Pakistani band Khumaria, which performed in Moscow weeks ago, calling the performance a “roaring success.”
“We've just sent a young blogger from Varunesh Maria to Pakistan, and I would encourage you to watch her videos of Pakistan on Instagram,” he said.
In terms of economic connectivity, Tirmizi mentioned Russian-origin ride-hailing company InDrive as “one of the most popular companies in Pakistan.”
“One of the Russian companies, Beeline, has an investment in Pakistan’s telecommunications sector,” Tirmizi added. “There are so many connections between Russia and Pakistan.”
Tirmizi also emphasized the need for further collaboration in tourism between the two countries.
“I want Russian tourists to explore Pakistan, and I want Pakistani tourists to explore Russia.”
He highlighted the increase in visa issuances between the two countries during his tenure as Pakistan’s envoy.
The ambassador said Russia was a “treasure” in terms of its “national beauty and economic potential.”
The Pakistani envoy called for further collaboration between the two countries.
“There are a lot of collaborations between Russia and Pakistan, and we have to increase these connections.”