Naveed Ahmad Khan

Islamabad: The occasion dates back to the first years of the existence of the Russian Soviet Republic and the history of its withdrawal from the First World War. On January 28, 1918, Vladimir Lenin, Chairman of the Council of People’s Commissars of the Russian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic signed a decree “On Forced Recruitment into the Workers ‘and Peasants’ Red Army.” On February 23, the Red Army began to accept volunteers into its ranks.

Since 1923, February 23 has marked Red Army and Navy Day. In 1946-1992, the holiday was celebrated as Soviet Army and Navy Day. In 1993-1995, it was celebrated as the Day of Defenders of the Fatherland. In 1993-1995, it was celebrated as the Defenders of the Fatherland Day

In 2006, the plural was removed from the name of the holiday, and it became Defender of the Fatherland Day.

In 2002, February 23 was declared a non-working day for the first time (according to the new Labor Code of the Russian Federation signed by Russian President Vladimir Putin on December 30, 2001).

On Wednesday Russian Federation’s Embassy in Islamabad celebrated Defender of the Fatherland Day, paying homage to the Russian armed forces. Air vice Marshal Abid Latif of the Pakistan Air Force graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, Dean of Diplomatic Corps and Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Pakistan Atadjan N. Movlamov Ambassadors, Defense Attaché and media persons were present.

The ceremony kicked off with the national anthems of both nations, symbolizing the enduring bond they share. Ambassador Albert P Khorev, along with Defence Attache Colonel Vadim N. Fenchenko and Chief Guest Air vice Marshal Abid Latif, ceremonially cutting a cake adorned with Russian and Pakistani flags.

 Colonel Vadim N. Fenchenko, Russian Defence Attache, extended gratitude and recognition to the diverse gathering, emphasizing the sacrifices made by Russian forces for the safety and stability of their nation. The event drew notable guests, including Ambassadors, defense attaches, and media personnel, fostering connections through networking opportunities. The evening concluded with a delightful dinner featuring traditional Russian cuisine, adding a cultural touch to the celebration.

This event not only highlighted the enduring friendship between Russia and Pakistan but also honored the dedication and sacrifices of Russian Defenders on Defender of the Fatherland Day.