Russia Open to Pakistan’s Mediation Offer on Ukraine War
Moscow also offers to mediate between Pakistan and Afghanistan if both countries agree, says Russian envoy
ISLAMABAD: Russia is ready to consider any proposal by Pakistan to mediate in the Ukraine conflict, Russian Ambassador to Pakistan Albert P. Khorev said, adding that Moscow could also facilitate dialogue between Pakistan and Afghanistan if both countries agreed to the initiative.
Speaking at the launch of the book “Ukraine War: Behind the Headlines” at the Russian Embassy in Islamabad, Ambassador Khorev expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s balanced position on the Ukraine conflict, describing it as what Russia often calls “positive neutrality.”
He said Moscow valued Pakistan’s independent assessment of international developments and its commitment to dialogue and negotiations as a means of resolving disputes.
“We sincerely appreciate the balanced position of the Pakistani leadership on the Ukraine conflict,” the ambassador said, adding that Russia respected Pakistan’s approach to international affairs and its willingness to support diplomatic engagement.
Referring to the possibility of Pakistan playing a mediating role, Khorev said Russia would consider a proposal from Islamabad, similar to initiatives by other countries, including Brazil and China, to help resolve the conflict.
He also offered Russia’s services to facilitate dialogue between Pakistan and Afghanistan, stressing that any such initiative would require the consent of both countries.
The Russian ambassador further said Moscow remained ready to work with Pakistan as a reliable supplier of energy, agricultural products and fertilisers, as well as an important regional partner.
Earlier, speakers at the book launch rejected the perception that Pakistan was aligned exclusively with the United States and Western countries. They recalled that during the height of the Cold War in the 1960s, Pakistan maintained its engagement with China despite strong opposition to Beijing from Washington and Western capitals.
The speakers said Pakistan’s role as a mediator and facilitator of diplomatic dialogue was recognised internationally. They also criticised what they described as double standards in US and Western policies towards Russia.
They warned that the war in Europe and the resulting energy crisis could have direct consequences for countries across Asia and Africa, highlighting the wider international implications of the conflict.
The event concluded with the distribution of complimentary copies of the book among guests, while participants were also presented with honours and awards.
