Russian President Vladimir Putin has described Pakistan as a close partner of Russia, reaffirming the growing strength of bilateral relations between the two countries. The statement was made during a formal credentials presentation ceremony held at the Grand Kremlin Palace.

Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to the Russian Federation, formally presented his credentials to President Putin during the solemn event. The ceremony marked the official start of Ambassador Tirmizi’s diplomatic mission in Moscow.

During the meeting, Ambassador Tirmizi conveyed warm greetings and best wishes from the President, the Prime Minister, and the people of Pakistan to the Russian leadership. The exchange reflected mutual respect and a shared commitment to strengthening diplomatic ties.

President Putin acknowledged the steady expansion of cooperation between Pakistan and Russia. He noted progress across multiple sectors, including trade, diplomacy, commerce, education, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, railways, industry, health, and information technology.

Ambassador Faisal Niaz Tirmizi officially assumed charge of the Pakistani mission in Moscow on October 26, 2025. His tenure is expected to focus on enhancing bilateral collaboration, particularly in energy, trade, regional connectivity, education, cultural exchange, and people-to-people contact.

A key priority of the ambassador’s mission is also engagement with the Pakistani diaspora residing across the Russian Federation. Strengthening ties with overseas Pakistanis remains an important aspect of Pakistan’s diplomatic outreach.

A seasoned diplomat, Ambassador Tirmizi joined the Foreign Service of Pakistan in 1995 and has served in several significant roles at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Pakistan’s missions abroad. His previous assignments include postings in Turkmenistan, the United States, the United Nations, the United Arab Emirates, and ambassadorships in the Kyrgyz Republic and the UAE.

In recognition of his diplomatic contributions, Ambassador Tirmizi was awarded the First-Class Order of Zayed II by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. He is also a recipient of the SCO-RATS Award for his work within the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

The ceremony and President Putin’s remarks underscore the growing momentum in Pakistan-Russia relations, reflecting a shared vision for deeper cooperation and long-term partnership.