Sir: It is comforting to note that the relationship between Pakistan and Russia is warming up. It is time we lower our expectations from the West and start building a friendly block with China, Russia, Iran and other regional friendly governments. At the same time we should not sever our diplomatic channels with the West and keep on engaging them for peace and trade talks. During the last decade or so, Russia has proved to be a responsible and mature super power, something Pakistan can benefit from militarily, economically and culturally. It might sound like a bitter pill but I strongly feel that Pakistan should apologize to Russia for its role played as a ‘hired gun’ during the 1970s/80s cold war. In future, we should also not let any country use our soil and space to attack another country. I think an apology will be in order. ISPHANYAR M BHANDARA Rawalpindi Published in Daily Times, September 11th 2018.