Moscow, Russia: The first Pakistani who has received the highest civil award of the Federation of Russia in the field of Literature, Dr Najam Sahar Butt has said that stronger cultural ties between Russia and Pakistan will help to shun negative propaganda against Pakistan.
Dr Najam Sahar Butt (Наджам Сахар Бат) from Lahore got highest civil award of Russia in the field of literature—the “Medal of Pushkin”.
While giving an exclusive interview to Dispatch News Desk (DND) News Agency, Dr Najam Sahar Butt said that the translation of Russian literature into Urdu and the translation of Pakistani literature into Russian can (would) play an important role in restoring friendly relationships grounded on mutual respect between the two countries.
He believes that the translation of Russian literature into Urdu makes it possible for Urdu readers to become more familiar with the nature of the Russian people, with its culture, customs and traditions.
“Having read “From the First Person” and “My Last Warrior”, many Pakistanis began to think about the situation in Afghanistan in a different way. There are many young people who respect and adore Vladimir Putin. I believe that stronger cultural ties between our countries will help to overcome the long-standing negative propaganda against each of us”, commented Dr Najam Sahar Butt.
“For better understanding and restructuring of relations, a more extensive exchange of literature is needed. As the translation of Russian literature into Urdu and the translation of Pakistani literature into Russian can play an important role in restoring friendly relationships grounded on mutual respect”, commented Dr Sahar.
When asked what did he feel when he was given Pushkin Medal, Dr. Sahar said that the moment of receiving of the medal was of course a very special for his life.
“My heart was somewhere in my throat and when Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov spoke kindly and praiseworthy words about me and attached a medal to my chest, it was a very happy and wonderful moment in my life. Later, during the reception in the Kremlin when Russian President Vladimir Putin shook hands and thanked for translations of Russian literature, it was a great honor. Sitting at the same table with Foreign Minister Lavrov and honored musician Pakhmutova was also a great honor indeed”, said Dr Sahar.
