Putin reaffirms his readiness to increase anti-terror cooperation with Pakistan after cyber attacks

Russian President Vladimir Putin reiterated Russia’s readiness to further strengthen cooperation with Pakistan to fight terrorism following the suicide attack on an imambargah in Islamabad on Friday that killed at least 31 people and injured dozens.

Police and officials confirmed that a massive bomb ripped through the Tarlai area imambargah on Friday, killing at least 31 worshipers and injuring 169.

According to the Russian Embassy in Pakistan, President Putin sent condolence letters to President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressing grief over the terrorist attack.

In his message, Putin said: “The killing of people during a religious ceremony is another testimony to the barbaric and inhuman nature of terrorism. I would like to confirm Russia’s readiness to further strengthen cooperation with our Pakistani partners in the fight against terrorism.”

He also conveyed his sympathy and support to the victims’ families and loved ones, extending “our wishes for a speedy recovery to all those injured”.

In response to Putin’s letter, President Zardari expressed gratitude, writing: “I thank President Vladimir Putin for his kind letter of condolence on the tragic terrorist attack in Islamabad. Pakistan deeply appreciates Russia’s solidarity and our common will to fight terrorism in all its forms.”

There were also outpourings of support and solidarity from other countries.

‘Crime against humanity’: Politicians, nations slam horrifying attack on Islamabad imambargah

Prime Minister Shehbaz responded to the messages in a post on X: “I am grateful for the strong messages of sympathy and support that we have received from around the globe in the wake of today’s heartbreaking suicide attack in Islamabad. The support of our friends and partners has always been critical in Pakistan’s fight against terrorism.

“The perpetrators of this heinous crime will be brought to justice in full force and their nefarious designs will never be allowed to succeed. The brave nation of Pakistan stands united at this time and we remain fully committed to our resolve to defeat terrorism as we always have.”