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Russian president defers Pakistan visit
Russian president Vladimir Putin says postponed visit due to busy schedule.
Say they will stage protests across the province every Wednesday. PHOTO: REUTERS/FILE
ISLAMABAD: Russian President Vladimir Putin has postponed his visit to Pakistan, saying that he has other engagements scheduled on the same dates, the Pakistani foreign office said on Thursday.
However, Express News reported that he postponed his trip due to security concerns.
According to a press release issued by the Pakistani foreign office, the quadrilateral summit between Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan and Afghanistan which was scheduled for October 2 and 3 has also been postponed.
In a letter to President Asif Ali Zardari, Putin expressed his eagerness to “jointly enhance efforts to further develop Russian-Pakistani ties” and “advance mutually beneficial trade and economic projects.”
The Russian president wrote, “I am confident that in future we shall be able to find opportunities for arranging our personal meeting. We shall always be happy to receive you in Russia”.
The new dates for the summit will be sorted out after seeking availability of the participating leaders through diplomatic channels.
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ops…thts nt cool :-(
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Security Concern ….
Something is fishy
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I am sure this has everything to do with the recent riots and protests. And what a puny excuse! “sorry I am busy, I can’t come, next time”. Sadly this is what Pakistan has come to stand nowadays, mostly because of its leaders and (partly) because of its people.
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Everyone is suddenly too busy to visit Pakistan!
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Ouch ! All that tom-toming on TV talk shows, the anchors literally jumping out of their seats, defense experts drooling at the thought of yet another defense pact with lots of toys.
Alas; all down the drain, along with honor and dignity.
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Fruits of ISHAQ-E-RASSOL day so quick?
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Oh boy, is this going to hurt or is this going to hurt !
Right now I have this sadistic urge to look at the faces of one retired Lt General, one retired Air Marshall and about half a dozen retired so-called diplomats.
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This is the way, world looks upon Pakistan.
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Really? No pressure from India/USA?Recommend
Haste will make waste. Sir, take your time.Recommend
By the way, anyone in Pakistan remember the “2002 Nord-Ost siege” and the “2004 Beslan school hostage crisis” ? Short memory much ?
Let me assure you, Putin remembers.
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“he has other engagements scheduled on the same dates” Other engagements are more important than pariah state of Pakistan. His secretary did not make any mistakes in double bookings, she did what she was told. Manmohan Singh, Putin, Obama, or any other people that matter on the world stage are not coming to Pakistan. I wonder what the reason is for boycott of Pakistan? Maybe chickens are coming home to roost.
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By the way, just to jog your memories, in the 2004 Beslan massacre at least 334 hostages were killed, including 186 children. Yes you read it right, 186 (One hundred and eighty six) children.
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An expected move by Putin. You may see the same from Manmohan Singh. They will plan their visit after the national elections as it makes more sense to talk and negotiate terms with the fresh political leadership.. The PPP-allied leadership is due to expire in few months time.
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“Russian President Vladimir Putin has postponed his visit to Pakistan, saying that he has other engagements scheduled on the same dates”
So much for the paradigm shift in Pakistan’s foreign policy and new global alignments!!!
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Shouldn’t be taken as a surprise or a rebuff. Where our own president is unwilling to step out of his palace due to security concerns, why would a head of state of another country take the chance. I would term this as a security and foreign policy failure. #all pakistanis who have left the country or mulling on leaving ought to ask themselves the question: what is required to remain living in their own country? If all roads lead to the installation of a more component government setup which works towards the prosperity of Pakistan and is not self serving, then it is our duty to vote for change and save Pakistan for our future generations. Responsibility lies with us as well and we should own up to it. Recommend
This is a major set-back. Pakistan foreign office needs to reflect………………..Recommend
I think its a wise decision. There is no point wasting time meeting with the current ‘leadership’ we have. I think he should visit when these people are gone and some sane man rules the country.Recommend
& that too on India’s pressure…
Stop this AMAN KI ASHA…Recommend
You know your country has lot of issues when even Putin is scared to visit.
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Fair Enough
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Now beg Putin to come. Then demand he comes. And finally if he still doesn’t, protest against ‘discrimination’ and burn a few cars and damage some shops.
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I was always thinking Russian President’s visit to Pakistan was a message to india to get not too close to the US and not forget Russia.
I think this confirms this.
What has happened behind the scenes nobody can say for sure, but it is intriguing why would Russia goto Pakistan a country which has done harm to it and has initiated wars with its long time ally. This cancellation points to the above scenario.
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oops !!!! strategic alliance????Recommend
Some guys in Washington would be really happy…
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It is a very complex world and many factors come in to play when decade old allies try to switch the loyalties and friendships. Pakistani mind set is tuned up with English speaking countries and if I say English has fully been nurtured in the blood of all Pakistanis it will not be wrong. Now if some one wants to switch to Russian or Chinese Block apparently it might not become possible as almost whole water has already passed under the bridge. Still let us hope for the best.
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Yome Ishqe Putin postponed
++++++++++++++++++++++
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Pakistan wanted to hedge its bets against reliance on USA by opting for China and Russia.
China by-passed Pakistan and directly engaged President Karzai and Afghan Govt.
Russian President has now postponed his visit.
Turkey is too busy with Syria.
Saudi brothers will not allow Pakistan to get close to Iran.
That now leaves Pakistan option 1) to align with Venezuela, North Korea etc. and continue present policy or option 2) tweak its policy, stop protecting terrorists (that destroy itself more then foreigners) of every type, follow it up with actions so inetrnational community trust it and allows it to become stronger internally.
Any guess on what Pakistan will choose?
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This is the way how world, looks upon Pakistan.Recommend
Now all those american bashers who were looking for a sugar daddy in Putin, can go for a hike. So much for the Kayani visit and pointless chest thumping about Pakistan’s now seen importance with Russia. Dont u guys think that Putin’s time schedule would have been planned well in advance without any clash. The last minute “unavailability” obviously point to something fishy.
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How can you even dream of tilting towards Russia and China, when the sons and daughters of politicans, bureacrats and generals study, live and migrate to the West? Not to mention our brothers in the Gulf wont be too happy either? Plus, Pakistanis seem to have conveniently forgotten our brothers and sisters in Checyna? Short memories eh?
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We must make yom-e-Putin day to make The russian president come to Pakistan now. I can see the JI heads sending a letter to Rehman Malik
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@Jat: and the killers were?
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@Shak: Killers were Chechen Islamic terrorists trained by Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. Have lots more information on Pakistan’s love affair with Chechen, if you want…
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Pakistan contributed to the downfall of soviet empire. The downfall came due to their stupid action in afghanistan which drained its resources. It’s not a brainer to oppose a aggression at your neighbour. Time is the biggest teacher and healer to get rid of that hard feeling. It will take a few more visits to be postponed. Don,t forget he was then KGB.
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@ayesha azeem: Yes ,we r not in favor of russia-pak ties.And thus i cannot disagree anymore with your comment.
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@Shak: Islamic Chechen terrorists trained and financed by Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
Even though these killers murdered 186 innocent children, they did not hurt the religious sentiments of the Russians.
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Are CIA/RAW/MOSSAD involved?
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@It Is (still) Economy Stupid: Just an aside…. There must be more than “It Is (still) Economy Stupid” if you’re mostly always commenting on political etc issues! Right?
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CIA/Mosad/RAW pressured him not to visit Islamic Republic of Pakistan?
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Another diplomatic victory of India over Pakistan
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I think its not relating to security rather something with IP pipeline.
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India did not allow Putin to visit Pakistan. Period.
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@Jat: On Anniversaries of the Beslan Murder Russian mothers place water bottles at the graves of their children…..the children died thirtsy….I think Chechen cruelty far exceeds that of Taliban.
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.I think Russian cruelty far exceeds that of Taliban.
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It was smart decision Mr. Putin. No need to visit when we have Skype :)
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“we shall always be happy to receive you in Russia”, wrote Putin.
This sums up everything. Deep state is going to haunt Pakistan for years to come.
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@Arindom: “burn a few cars and damage some shops.
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Russias famous Lada Cars….eminently inflammeable
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Wise decision. Who would, in their right mind, would want to step in this country? I can clearly understand why Putin realised that it would totally be a waste of time. He rather go to Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhuttan than pakistan.Recommend
only talibans and Alqaeda comes to pakistan
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I wrote a month ago that both Russia and China are preparing for the exit of US from the region. They both want to control terrorism in and from Pakistan. They both want their boots on the ground within Pakistan. This I think is the reason that both offered financing for various dams so that they can bring their forces openly or in the guise of engineers to secure their interests. This is also the reason both wanted contracts to be awarded to them exclusively on a no bid basis. Both want to pursue their strategies independently within Pakistan. China has already full control of parts of Kashmir region and shall also be controlling Gwadar port. With the recent signing of the military cooperation agreement with Pakistan, China will have more control over Pakistan. So, Russia is backing out. Controlling terrorists in Pakistan, be it by China or Russia, is good for the region, especially India. I feel Chinese can be more effective. Between the Russian Bear and the Panda Bear, Pakistan chose to be hugged by the Panda Bear. China has more interests also. If they see problem from US in their east, they can create problems for US in Afghanistan. Only time will tell if Pakistan benefits or faces more problem due to clash of various powers in its territory. In any case it is good for India as the action will be on the west of Pakistan and not on the eastern side bordering India. Also China will not allow any terrorists from Pakistan to operate against India as this would complicate issues for China also. You already see a significant change in the attitude of terror groups in Pakistan. They have visibly toned down their anti India hate speeches. Islamic Republic of Pakistan is becoming Peoples Republic of Pakistan.
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@M.Adil: That’s lame.Recommend
One of the biggest snubs where pakistan nose has been dragged on ground badly. Schedules for head of state visits are planned months in advance. Russia has rightly put us where we belong in international arena, and showed us our place at the bottom of ladder. This country is anyways sold completely to Beijing and Washington. Even if russians come at a later stage, all they care is to grab assets as they know, that we can even sell ourselves for dollars. Shame to be called a green passport holder.
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I wonder if cancelling of the Putin’s visit has anything to do with our establishment signing away our country’s assests to the chinese for dime on a dollar? Both russia and china have competing strategic goals as far as our ‘natural’ (access to the warm water, mininig, terrorism, energy/trade routes etc.)assets are concerned.
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Putin still has time to go to syria/iran et al. Shows the importance of Pakistan.
Pakistan-China-Russia axis anyone?
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@ayesha azeem:
If you can’t bear the heat, get out of the kitchen
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@M. Adil:
There was speculation that Putin’s decision to cancel his visit could be linked to Pakistan’s reluctance to award the work of building its section of the Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline to Russian energy giant Gazprom. The chief of the Russian firm had recently visited Pakistan and made presentations to the Foreign Ministry and other departments. However, Gazprom had wanted the project to be awarded to it without bidding, something that Pakistan is reluctant to do. Pakistani officials have said such a step would violate the rules of the Public Procurement Regulatory Authority.
Political decisions based on economy always bring votes. Look up ecoomy based growth model by Modi of Gujrat, Nitish Kumar of Bihar, Obama of US, Markel of Germany.
So end of the day Its (still) Economy Stupid. Regards
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“Russian President Vladimir Putin has postponed his visit to Pakistan, saying that he has other engagements scheduled on the same dates, the Pakistani foreign office said on Thursday.
“
Well, well. Not much face saving opportunity there.
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Pakistan was playing the Chinese against the Russians to extract as much as possible. And then Pakistan got found out.
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Man, Pakistan is even wilder than Afghanistan. The great Russian, known for his bravery and courage refuses because of ‘security concerns.’
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The development is self deciphered . The meaning it carries is crystal clear . Is’t it ?
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he didnt even bother to offer a real reason for not comingRecommend
The meeting is not deferred, it is cancelled. The term deferred would have been appropriate if an alternative date was mentioned at the same time. That is not the case.
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When a fascist of Putin’s caliber is afraid to visit a country run by religio-fascists than you know the country is in serious trouble. What’s a self-respecting fascist to do?
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i have snuggest earlier that US lobby in pakistan will never allow such visit and its happen.
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The Chechen recruits joined the military wing of the International Islamic Front, which was headed by the notorious Osama Bin Laden, and were trained in Pakistan – where the leading Chechen warlord, Shamil Basayev, himself underwent training in 1990s.
The above information is from BBC News. More information to follow…
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@Its (still) the EconomyStupid:
Exactly. Both Russia and China offered infrastructure projects on exclusive basis so that they can bring their men in the guise of workers to take care of the situation after US exists the region. Now that, after the military cooperation agreement with China Pakistan has become Peoples Republic of Pakistan, Russia is no longer interested. The fact is, China can control terrorism ruthlessly and much better than Russia. China will wipe out the terrorists and ensure peace which will be good for all in the region.
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Ver wise decision as nobody know the fate of PM on 5th Oct.There is possibility that he is in Pak. and we are without PM. Plus current Govt. is completing its term and by any standard to so popular to be engaged for futue planning. Rather wait for few months when new Govt. take over then start dialogue
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According to “Crossing the Rubicon”, a book by Michael C. Rupert –
“…The two main Chechen rebel armies (respectively led by Commander Shamil Basayev and Emir Khattab) estimated at 35,000 strong were supported by Pakistan’s ISI, which also played a key role in organizing and training the Chechen rebel…”
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for the last a year or two pakistan was resisting american pressure so boldly that countries like russia were inspired by this show of dignity. but now same old pakistan and same old america “the master”. Doesn’t it seem Pakistan will have to work deligently to come out of this american shadow to get some esteem?!
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Pakistan will have to come out of american shadow to get some esteem.. This snub is a reminder to set our house in order viz a viz pak-us relations and executive-judiciary tussle which has kept the govt engaged upto neck hence it has become weakest to bear any pressure specially the american one!
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@Aryabhat:
“That now leaves Pakistan option 1) to align with Venezuela, North Korea etc. and continue present policy or option 2) tweak its policy, stop protecting terrorists (that destroy itself more then foreigners) of every type, follow it up with actions so inetrnational community trust it and allows it to become stronger internally.
Any guess on what Pakistan will choose?”
Most likely option 1.
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@Raj – USA:
India does not need protection. It can take on Russia, China, USA, Iran, North Korea, Pakistan and Afghanistan put all together. Throughout history, we, the Indian warriors, have defended our sacred land very effectively against superpowers of all time.
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Who wants Putin, we want Russian Money and Oil
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Not a good sign for Pakistan. Looks like that there is nothing we can offer them in return. A complete failure of foreign policy which is formulated somewhere else where it is not supposed to be made.
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The icing would be if Putin were to schedule an Oct 1-3 trip to India.
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Why all the commotion?
Has anyone thought that perhaps, Putin truly is busy and has no time!!!!
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Dont blame putin. Thats what I tell my ex boyfriend who stalks me endlessly. Hmmm…too busy.
Remember pakistan for Pakistanis. And only sharks can swim in a shark tank!!
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Communism or socialism is hated by the elite class and establishment
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We don’t want lighter than tissue paper russian friendship
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Russia was ordered by India to stay. That shows the World, India ‘owns’ Russia. Had they refused, Moscow would have been India’s summer capital.
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Will he come at all?
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In before It’s the Amreekians and Israeeeeeeeeeeeeelis fault by people who don’t understand politics and think China is our best friend while they get cosy with Israel and India. With the riots and the Taliban running rampant, I’m not surprised he doesn’t want to visit right now, just hope things start looking up.
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Look at all these indian trolls jumping up and down in joy. president deferred not cancelled. So sit downRecommend
It is extremely shameful for a head of state to do such a thing. I never expected this from Mr. Putin.Recommend
@zeta
Read between the lines, it is an unimaginable excuse. Therefore, “deferred” without a new-date in diplomatic-language means “cancelled”. A direct “cancelled” word in that language would probably mean Russia joining US in the drone campaign.
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@ ayesha azeem:
There is an old sayiing: ” its better to remain silent and let people think you are dumb, rather than open your mouth and prove them right.”
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