
Islamabad, April 12, 2026(Kamran Raja):The Embassy of the Russia in Pakistan commemorated the 65th anniversary of the historic first human spaceflight with a wreath-laying ceremony held at the monument of Yuri Gagarin in Fatima Jinnah Park.
The ceremony was attended by Ambassador Albert P. Khorev, Additional Foreign Secretary of Pakistan Ayesha Ali, and ambassadors from Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. Also present were Russian Defense Attaché Colonel Vadim Fenchenko, Russian Trade Representative Denis Nevzorov, along with officials from the Capital Development Authority and SUPARCO.
Members of the diplomatic corps, the Russian community in Pakistan, and representatives from Pakistani academia also attended the event.
In his remarks, Ambassador Khorev highlighted that Yuri Gagarin’s historic journey aboard the Vostok-1 marked the beginning of a new era in human history—the exploration of space. He emphasized that the achievement symbolized humanity’s determination to push the boundaries of scientific and technological progress and to pursue ambitious and noble goals.
The Ambassador further noted that the success of the mission was the result of the collective efforts of millions of Soviet citizens, including scientists, engineers, and workers, whose dedication and commitment made this milestone possible.
Speaking on the occasion, Additional Foreign Secretary Ayesha Ali, on behalf of the Government of Pakistan, expressed appreciation to the Russian Embassy for organizing the commemorative event. She underscored the growing and multifaceted relationship between Pakistan and Russia, highlighting cooperation in areas such as energy, regional connectivity, education, and cultural exchanges.
“Pakistan attaches great importance to its relations with Russia,” she stated. “Such commemorative events not only honor historic milestones but also serve to strengthen the bonds of friendship and mutual respect between our two countries.”
The Russian Embassy also extended its gratitude to the International Charitable Public Foundation “Dialogue of Cultures – United World” and the St. Petersburg International Mercantile Exchange for their support in providing the bust of Yuri Gagarin and contributing to the construction of the monument.
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