MOSCOW, Russia — Russia supports Pakistan’s counterterrorism efforts and shares Islamabad’s concerns over the growing threat of militant activity in the region, particularly from Afghanistan, Russia’s ambassador to Pakistan, Albert Khorev, said in an interview with TASS.
“We share Islamabad’s concerns over the growing terrorist activity in Pakistan,” Khorev said. “Russia supports our Pakistani counterparts in their fight against terrorism and remains committed to strengthening constructive cooperation with both Pakistan and Afghanistan.”
Khorev emphasized that ensuring stability in Afghanistan and addressing security threats emanating from its territory align with Moscow’s broader regional interests.
The ambassador described Russia and Pakistan’s counterterrorism cooperation as productive. He pointed to expert-level consultations between deputy foreign ministers, calling them “highly effective.”
Khorev also highlighted joint military exercises between the two countries, noting that in October 2024, Russian and Pakistani forces conducted drills to counter various threats as part of the seventh edition of the Friendship military exercises.
Khorev reiterated Russia’s support for Afghanistan’s counterterrorism efforts and pledged continued assistance. However, he stressed that securing the Pakistan-Afghanistan border remains the primary responsibility of the two nations.
“We welcome both bilateral and regional cooperation in addressing terrorist threats,” he said. “Dialogue on these shared challenges is ongoing within the Moscow consultation format and other multilateral platforms that bring together Afghanistan’s constructive neighbors.”
