ISSI hosted a Roundtable discussion in collaboration with the Embassy of the Russian Federation in Islamabad
ISLAMABAD : 30 March 2026 – 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.
Ambassadors Albert P. Khorev of Russia, Alisher Tukhtaev of Uzbekistan, Atadjan Movlamov of Turkmenistan, Yerzhan Kistafin of Kazakhstan, Sultan Kylychbek, Belarus Andrei N. Metelitsa, DHM Tajikistan Maroof Abdul Rehmon participated in the roundtable.
Dr. Neelum Nigar, Director CSP, in her introductory remarks highlighted the importance of revisiting diplomatic legacies amid global instability and declining trust.She noted that reflecting on history can provide insights for sustaining dialogue and cooperation in complex international contexts.
Ambassador Khalid Mahmood, Chairman Board of Governors ISSI, in his welcome remarks, framed the roundtable as both a commemorative exercise and an analytical reflection. He noted that Ambassador Azimov served during a period marked by Cold War tensions, regional realignments, and strategic uncertainty, requiring diplomacy characterised by patience, nuance, and a deep understanding of national interests.He emphasised that Pakistan–Russia relations have evolved through multiple phases, ranging from caution and distance to gradual engagement and normalisation.
In this context, revisiting historical experiences is essential for understanding the foundations of contemporary bilateral relations and for informing future policy directions.
Russian Federation Ambassador Albert P. Khorev highlighted late Ambassador Sarvar Azimov’s unique combination of intellectual depth and diplomatic skill. He recalled his pivotal role in strengthening Pakistan–Soviet relations during the 1970s as Pakistan, under Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, diversified its foreign policy.
He pointed to major Soviet-supported initiatives—such as Karachi Steel Mills and key thermal power plants—as crucial to Pakistan’s industrial growth and economic self-reliance, reflecting a broader strategic alignment despite Cold War tensions.
Ambassador khorev also emphasised Ambssador Azimov’s role in maintaining continuity in bilateral ties amid regional and political challenges, with trade expanding significantly between 1973 and 1980. Highlighting people-to-people and institutional cooperation, including Soviet technical assistance and training for Pakistani engineers, Ambassador Khorev stressed that these efforts built lasting foundations for collaboration and mutual understanding, and expressed hope for continued recognition of such diplomatic legacies.
Ambassador Anvar S. Azimov, a distinguished Russian diplomat and son of late Ambassador Sarvar Azimov, delivered deeply reflective remarks that combined personal insight with strategic perspective. He emphasised that, historically, Pakistan and the Soviet Union maintained a fundamentally constructive bilateral relationship, notwithstanding external geopolitical pressures from major powers.
He noted that both countries consistently sought to strengthen cooperation in line with their national interests and shared developmental objectives.
Ambassador Anvar Azimov 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, which reflected Moscow’s commitment to regional stability.
Reflecting on his father’s diplomatic approach, he underscored that Ambassador Sarvar Azimov prioritised trust-building, respect, and engagement across political divides, enabling him to maintain productive relationships with successive Pakistani leaderships during a complex and evolving political environment.
He noted that such an approach was instrumental in sustaining cooperation even during periods of geopolitical tension. He also highlighted the broader significance of Soviet assistance to Pakistan’s industrial and economic development, particularly in sectors such as steel, energy, and technical training.
Emphasising the need for continuity, he expressed the hope that these historical foundations could be revitalised to further deepen Pakistan–Russia relations in the present context.
Concluding on a forward-looking note, Ambassador Azimov stressed that while bilateral relations remain positive, there is considerable scope for further strengthening cooperation, guided by shared interests and mutual respect.
In the subsequent discussion session, scholars offered diverse perspectives on the legacy of Ambassador Sarvar Azimov and the broader trajectory of Pakistan–Soviet relations. The participants highlighted the evolution of Pakistan–Russia relations from Cold War-era constraints to contemporary engagement, noting the expanding scope of cooperation in areas such as energy, connectivity, and regional multilateral frameworks.
Participants emphasised that historical reflection is not merely commemorative but can serve as a guide for navigating present and future challenges in bilateral and regional relations. The event concluded with a vote of thanks and the presentation of mementos to the distinguished speakers.
Sarvar Olimjonovich Azimov (1923–1994) was a prominent Uzbek and Soviet statesman, diplomat, and writer who played a key role in shaping relations between the Soviet Union and South Asia.
Azimov is best known for his tenure as the Soviet Ambassador to Pakistan (1974–1980). During this pivotal Cold War period, he facilitated several major Soviet-supported industrial projects that remain significant to Pakistan’s economy today, including:
The Karachi Steel Mills: A cornerstone of Pakistan’s heavy industry.
Energy Infrastructure: The development of key thermal power plants.
Agriculture: Increasing the supply of MTZ tractors to the Pakistani market.
Before his posting in Pakistan, he served as the Soviet Ambassador to Lebanon (1969–1974) and held high-ranking positions in the Uzbek SSR, including Deputy Chairman of the Council of Ministers and Minister of Foreign Affairs.
Literary and Artistic Legacy
Beyond diplomacy, Azimov was a celebrated intellectual and writer in the Uzbek SSR. His literary work often addressed themes of national liberation and anti-colonialism.
Major Works: His notable writings include Bloody Mirage (1961), White Morning Song (1962), and the drama Zamon (1968).
Film: He was a screenwriter for Soviet-era films such as Syny otechestva (Sons of the
Fatherland, 1969) and Listok iz bloknota (A Page from a Notebook, 1965).
Recognition: He was a member of the Communist Party and recipient of the Order of the Red Banner of Labour and the Order of the October Revolution.
