Report By Syed Farzand Ali
Pakistan’s Federal Health Minister Mukhtar Ahmed has said that Pakistan and Russia are linked by a strong relationship based on mutual trust, cooperation and friendship, adding that ties between the two countries are growing stronger with time.
He made these remarks while addressing an alumni gathering organized to mark the 25th anniversary of the Association of Pakistani Graduates from Russia and CIS countries.
The ceremony brought together diplomats, academics, former students and professionals associated with Russian educational institutions and highlighted expanding people-to-people and educational cooperation between Islamabad and Moscow.
Russian Ambassador to Pakistan Gleb Chopin praised the role of the alumni association in promoting friendly relations between the two nations and reaffirmed Moscow’s commitment to close cooperation with Pakistan.
The ambassador stated that Russia stands “shoulder to shoulder” with Pakistan and supports efforts aimed at strengthening bilateral relations in multiple sectors.
His comments reflected the growing diplomatic engagement between the two countries, particularly in education, healthcare, trade and regional cooperation.
Speaking at the event, Mukhtar Ahmed emphasized the importance of educational cooperation with Russia and said Pakistani students who study in Russian universities return home with valuable professional knowledge and experience.
According to the minister, these graduates are contributing positively to national development in various sectors after completing higher education in Russia.
He said Pakistan could greatly benefit from Russian expertise in technology, science, medicine and advanced professional training.
The minister also acknowledged the important role played by the alumni association in building stronger cultural and educational ties between Pakistan and Russia.
The event marked the silver jubilee celebrations of the Association of Pakistani Graduates from Russia and CIS countries, an organization representing Pakistani students and professionals educated in former Soviet and Russian institutions.
The gathering was attended by several prominent figures, including:
- Dr. Shahid Hassan
- Dr. Ashraf Nizami
- Gleb Chopin
- Anara
- Buddha Priya Ramana
- Dr. Najam Al-Sahar Butt
- Dr. Nadeem Ahmed Bhatti
- Amjad Hussain Rizvi
- Hasnain Mirza
- Dr. Mosaddiq Hussain
Participants discussed educational exchange programs, cultural diplomacy and opportunities for deeper cooperation between Pakistan and Russia.
Chairman of the association Dr. Shahid Hassan said the ceremony was attended by a large number of graduates from Pakistan and abroad who are currently serving in different professional sectors.
He added that graduates educated in Russia and CIS countries continue to contribute significantly to Pakistan’s development through their expertise and international exposure.
Analysts believe educational diplomacy has become an increasingly important pillar in the improving relationship between Pakistan and Russia, especially as both countries seek stronger cooperation in energy, trade, health, science and regional security.
The event also highlighted the growing role of academic exchanges in building long-term strategic understanding between the two countries.


