ISLAMABAD - First time in the history, the Commander-in-Chief of Russian Federation Naval Forces Admiral Viktor V Chirkov has started his official visit to Pakistan on Thursday. The development is being considered a major breakthrough in the region within the current strategic scenario.
According to Pakistan Navy, Admiral Viktor V Chirkov, Commander-in-Chief, Russian Federation Naval Forces is on a four-day official visit to Pakistan.
Upon arrival at the Naval Headquarters, the Russian Commander-in-Chief was received by Admiral Mohammad Asif Sandila, Chief of the Naval Staff.  A smartly turned out contingent of Pakistan Navy clad in ceremonial dress presented him the Guard of Honour.  The visiting dignitary was introduced to principal staff officers at Naval Headquarters. During his meeting with Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Chirkov held detailed discussion on professional matters. 
Various avenues of cooperation, including conduct of bilateral naval exercises were also discussed in the meeting. A comprehensive brief on Pakistan Navy’s role in regional maritime security situation and operational developments in the Indian Ocean was also given to the visiting dignitary.
In a separate meeting, Admiral Vicktor Chirkov called on General Rashad Mahmood, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee. According to ISPR, both the dignitaries discussed matters related to mutual cooperation between the two armed forces.
Admiral Chirkov is a graduate of Higher Naval School, Vladivostok, Russian Naval Academy and Academy of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Russian Federation.
Besides holding the appointment as Commander-in-Chief of Russian Navy, he has had the privilege to serve on coveted appointments, including Chief of Staff/First Deputy Commander of the Troops and Forces of North East Flotilla, Commander Pacific Fleet, Chief of Staff/First Deputy Commander and then Commander of the Baltic Fleet.
Admiral Chirkov is also the recipient of various awards, including Order of Service to the Homeland in the Russian Armed Forces, Order of Military Merit and Order of Naval Merit. This visit is expected to greatly augment the bilateral cooperation between both the navies.