March 30, 2026(Nosheen): The Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI), through its Centre for Strategic Perspectives (CSP), in collaboration with the Embassy of the Russian Federation in Islamabad, hosted a roundtable discussion titled “Remembering Ambassador Sarvar Azimov: Diplomacy and Pakistan–Soviet Relations (1974–1980).” The event brought together senior diplomats, scholars, and members of the policy community to reflect on a formative phase in Pakistan–Soviet relations and the enduring legacy of Ambassador Sarvar Azimov.
In her introductory remarks, Director CSP Dr. Neelum Nigar underscored the importance of revisiting diplomatic legacies amid global instability and declining trust. She emphasized that reflecting on history offers valuable insights for sustaining dialogue and cooperation in complex international environments.
Chairman Board of Governors ISSI, Ambassador Khalid Mahmood, in his welcome address, described the roundtable as both a commemorative and analytical exercise. He noted that Ambassador Azimov served during a period marked by Cold War tensions, regional realignments, and strategic uncertainty, requiring diplomacy rooted in patience, nuance, and a deep understanding of national interests. He further highlighted that Pakistan–Russia relations have evolved from phases of caution and distance to gradual engagement and normalization, making historical reflection essential for informing future policy directions.
Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Pakistan, Albert P. Khorev, highlighted the late Ambassador Sarvar Azimov’s intellectual depth and diplomatic acumen. He recalled Azimov’s pivotal role in strengthening Pakistan–Soviet relations during the 1970s, particularly as Pakistan, under the leadership of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, diversified its foreign policy. He pointed to key Soviet-supported initiatives, including the Karachi Steel Mills and major thermal power projects, as critical contributions to Pakistan’s industrial development and economic self-reliance.
Ambassador Khorev also emphasized Ambassador Azimov’s role in maintaining continuity in bilateral ties during a challenging geopolitical period, noting significant expansion in trade between 1973 and 1980. He highlighted the importance of people-to-people exchanges and institutional cooperation, including Soviet technical assistance and training for Pakistani engineers, which laid a lasting foundation for mutual understanding and collaboration.
Ambassador Anvar S. Azimov, a distinguished Russian diplomat and son of the late Ambassador, offered reflective remarks blending personal insight with strategic perspective. He noted that Pakistan and the Soviet Union historically maintained a constructive bilateral relationship despite external geopolitical pressures, consistently seeking cooperation aligned with shared development goals.
He highlighted the Soviet Union’s early recognition of Pakistan and its role in facilitating dialogue during the 1965–66 India–Pakistan conflict, particularly through the Tashkent process, underscoring Moscow’s commitment to regional stability. Reflecting on his father’s diplomatic approach, Ambassador Anvar Azimov emphasized the importance of trust-building, mutual respect, and sustained engagement across political divides—principles that enabled enduring cooperation even during periods of tension.
He further noted the significance of Soviet assistance in Pakistan’s industrial and economic development, particularly in steel, energy, and technical sectors, and expressed hope that these historical foundations could be revitalized to further strengthen Pakistan–Russia relations.
In the interactive discussion session, participants shared diverse perspectives on Ambassador Azimov’s legacy and the broader trajectory of Pakistan–Soviet relations. They highlighted the transition from Cold War constraints to contemporary engagement, with growing cooperation in energy, connectivity, and regional multilateral frameworks. Speakers emphasized that such historical reflections are not merely commemorative but provide valuable guidance for addressing present and future challenges.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks and the presentation of mementos to the distinguished speakers.