Report by Syed Farzand Ali
ISLAMABAD — The Russian Embassy in Pakistan has closed its polling station after 130 Russian citizens voted in the State Duma election.
The embassy said the voters included embassy staff and trade mission staff.
Their family members also took part. In addition, Russian citizens living in Pakistan voted at the station.
Two observers from Russia’s Civic Chamber watched the voting process.
Voting Ends at Russian Embassy
The polling station was No. 8250 at the Russian Embassy in Islamabad.
Russian Ambassador Albert P. Khorev heads the local election commission.
He said traffic restrictions in Islamabad had created problems for voters.
Therefore, the embassy took extra steps to help Russian citizens reach the polling station.
The embassy also worked with Pakistani authorities. Together, they informed Russian citizens about the voting arrangements.
The embassy also arranged transport for some voters.
As a result, Russian citizens in Islamabad and nearby areas could reach the polling station.
Observers Report Calm Voting
Civic Chamber observer Olga Starkova praised the work of the election commission.
She said observers found no voting rule violations.
Meanwhile, another observer, Natalia Zhilina, said the vote went smoothly.
She also said voters and election staff followed the required steps.
The Russian embassy thanked all citizens who took part in the election.
It said their participation showed civic responsibility.
Russia Holds State Duma Election
Russia held its State Duma election from September 18 to 20.
The election chose members of the 450-seat State Duma.
Meanwhile, Russian citizens abroad could vote at polling stations in several countries.
The Islamabad station served Russian citizens living in Pakistan or visiting the country.
The Russian Embassy said it made efforts to help eligible voters cast their ballots.
