Article Posted on : - Apr 21, 2014

A file photo.

KARACHI (PTI): Two Russian navy ships have arrived at Karachi port on a first-ever goodwill visit to Pakistan for a naval exercise, signalling warming of bilateral relations.

During their stay, various training activities and discussions on maritime security will be held between Pakistani and Russian naval officers.

The Russian ships will also conduct passage exercise with Pakistan Navy's vessels, state-media reported.

The Russian flotilla is being led by Rear Admiral Dmitrieve Vladimir Alexandrovich, according to a statement by the Pakistan Navy.

Pakistan and Russia have historically been on opposite sides since the Cold War, when Islamabad supported the anti-Soviet Mujahideen in neighbouring Afghanistan against invading Russian troops in the 1980s.

Russia has also been traditionally close to India and is a major defence supplier for the Indian military.