A high-level Russian military delegation for the first time visited former strongholds of militants in restive tribal region along the Afghan border to get firsthand account of Pakistan's counter-terror gains. The delegation visited Miranshah in North Waziristan Agency, and Wana in South Waziristan Agency, the army said.<br/>'<br/>The delegation of the Russian army, the first ever to visit the conflict-stricken areas, was led by Deputy Chief of General Staff Col General Israkov Sergi Yuryevich, the army said.'<br/>'<br/>The military delegation's visit came amid growing ties between Pakistan and Russia after decades of mistrust and<br/>animosity during the Cold War.<br/>'<br/>In September, Russia held its first-ever military exercises with Pakistan and has also started selling weapons to Islamabad.'