Pakistan and Russia reaffirm to further strengthen bilateral ties
Islamabad: Pakistan and Russia have reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing bilateral relations in trade, commerce, investment, agriculture, and energy for the mutual benefit of both nations.
This was discussed during a meeting between President Asif Ali Zardari and the visiting parliamentary delegation, led by the Speaker of the Russian Federation Council, Ms. Valentina Matvienko, at Aiwan-e-Sadr.Landmark Pakistan-Russia Trade and Investment Forum Held
Welcoming the Russian delegation, the President highlighted the historical ties between Pakistan and Russia, which are characterized by mutual respect and a shared dedication to expanding bilateral cooperation across various sectors.
In his conversation with the delegation, the President emphasized the importance of strengthening cultural connections through people-to-people interactions and scholarship initiatives. He noted the vast potential for enhancing economic collaboration and encouraged Russian investments in Pakistan.
The President fondly recalled his recent positive engagement with President Vladimir Putin during his visit to Ashgabat. He also sought Russia’s backing for Pakistan’s aspiration to join BRICS, which would significantly assist Pakistan in enhancing its role in regional and global cooperation through the alliance. Both parties stressed the importance of diversifying trade and economic collaboration, as well as improving regional connectivity and commercial relations through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the North-South Transport Corridor.
The Russian Speaker highlighted that her country prioritizes its relationship with Pakistan and expressed confidence that her visit would further strengthen bilateral cooperation. She hoped that the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Parliaments of both nations would deepen their relations. She expressed satisfaction with the growth in bilateral trade and conveyed special greetings from President Putin. Additionally, she congratulated Pakistan on successfully hosting the SCO Heads of Government and on its candidacy for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council. The President expressed appreciation to Russia for its support of Pakistan’s candidacy for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council.
The meeting was attended by Senate Chairman Senator Syed Yousaf Raza Gillani, Senator Sherry Rehman, Senator Aimal Wali Khan, Senator Manzoor Ahmad Kakar, Senator Saleem H. Mandviwala, Senator Bushra Anjum Butt, and other senior officials.
