Senator Mushahid lauds Russia’s neutrality during recent Indo-Pak tensions
Pakistani Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Moscow on Saturday, thanking Russia for maintaining “positive neutrality” during the latest flare-up between India and Pakistan.
The two held a 40-minute bilateral meeting ahead of the Eurasian Forum, attended by leaders from China, Türkiye, South Korea, and Cambodia.
Senator Mushahid, the sole Pakistani invitee, delivered a keynote address emphasizing Pakistan’s commitment to regional peace and stronger Eurasian ties.
He appreciated Russia’s balanced stance amid the escalating military standoff between the two South Asian nuclear powers. This recent crisis was sparked by a deadly attack in Pahalgam, Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), on April 22, which claimed 26 lives.
India quickly pointed fingers at Pakistan, though no solid evidence emerged. Pakistan dismissed the accusations and called for an independent investigation.
The tensions resulted in intense military exchanges, with Pakistani forces downing six Indian aircraft, including Rafale jets—the worst confrontation in decades.
Pakistan’s gratitude for Russia’s neutral position reflects its appreciation for Moscow’s refusal to back either side.
Speaking to Russian media, Senator Mushahid praised Russia’s diplomatic efforts and reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for a multipolar world order, stressing that diplomacy should always prevail over military alliances.
“Pakistan is ready to contribute equally to the peaceful development of Eurasia alongside Russia and China,” he said.
Lavrov slams Western alliances and India’s role in the Quad
At the Eurasian Forum, Lavrov launched a sharp critique of Western military alliances in Asia, focusing on India’s growing role in the US-led Quad (with Australia, Japan, and the US). Lavrov argued that the concept of the Indo-Pacific was “invented by NATO to pull India into anti-China schemes.”
His comments were met with silence from the Indian delegation, which included members of the ruling BJP. Lavrov’s remarks highlighted the contradiction between India’s official stance that its Quad activities are purely economic and its increasing military cooperation with the US.
On the diplomatic front, Lavrov also pointed to India’s differences with US President Trump’s claim that Washington had played a key role in securing the latest Indo-Pak ceasefire.
Lavrov further warned about NATO’s efforts to re-establish a foothold in Afghanistan, four years after its chaotic withdrawal, framing it as a broader Western push to contain both China and Russia.
Pakistan aligns with Russia’s vision for Eurasia
Echoing Lavrov, Senator Mushahid reaffirmed Pakistan’s opposition to military alliances like the Quad and the so-called “Asian NATO,” saying they destabilize the region rather than fostering peace.
He expressed support for Russia’s Eurasian Security Initiative, which promotes “indivisible security” for the entire region.
“Pakistan is committed to partnering with Russia and China to build a peaceful and prosperous Eurasia,” he said.
Mushahid also underscored that while Pakistan rejects military blocs, it remains deeply engaged in regional cooperation through platforms like the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), supporting initiatives that prioritize diplomacy and dialogue.
Lavrov, during his address, also called out the growing Western military presence in Asia, urging a pivot toward cooperation that emphasizes economic growth and regional security over military rivalry.
His remarks underscored Russia’s vision of a multipolar world order driven by inclusive and rules-based collaboration.
The forum wrapped up with over 100 delegates urging a shift away from military containment and toward a more cooperative approach to regional stability.
