ISLAMABAD, Sep 18 (APP): Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Muhammad Ishaq Dar on Wednesday underscored the considerable potential in Pak-Russia relations, emphasizing the importance of boosting economic ties and increasing cultural and educational exchanges, as well as enhancing cooperation in energy, trade, and regional connectivity.
Addressing a joint press briefing with Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexei Overchuck, Ishaq Dar welcomed the Russian delegation and noted last year’s record high in bilateral trade.
He pledged to tackle logistical challenges in future meetings, including the Pak-Russian intergovernmental commission and Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) discussions, which are crucial for enhancing cooperation on Afghanistan, energy security, and food security.
Ishaq Dar stated that the visit of the Russian Deputy Prime Minister and his delegation reflects the growing depth and scope of economic cooperation, highlighting a clear mutual desire to strengthen Pak-Russia relations.
Strengthening bilateral cooperation with the Russian Federation remains a key priority of Pakistan’s foreign policy.
Ishaq Dar noted that Pak-Russia relations have advanced significantly, with a strong desire to forge cooperation between the two countries. A step-by-step approach based on trust and mutual respect has placed the relationship on a positive trajectory. Both delegations engaged in in-depth discussions focused on bilateral relations, identifying potential areas for economic expansion. Specific areas of mutual interest were outlined, including trade, economic collaboration, cultural relations, and people-to-people contacts.
Dar said Pakistan and Russia see significant potential for cooperation in the agriculture sector. Both countries aim to expand bilateral ties and navigate banking sanctions. Pakistan is eager to join BRICS, which was created by Brazil, Russia, India, and China, and looks forward to a positive role from Russia in helping it join the organization, as well as participation in other similar organizations.
He stated that the SCO provides an important forum aimed at promoting peace, development, and stability in the region. Pakistan will collaborate with Russia in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to address a range of global and regional issues, including the situation in Palestine.
Ishaq Dar said that Pak-Russia bilateral trade reached a record one billion US dollars last year. Expanding trade relations by addressing logistical issues is a priority for both sides. He emphasized the potential for energy cooperation, which will be explored further in detailed discussions. Additionally, both countries are eager to develop connectivity projects, including railways and roads, extending beyond their borders.
Ishaq Dar expressed satisfaction over the growing cultural and educational ties between the universities of Pakistan and Russia. He highlighted the productive meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Putin on the sidelines of the SCO summit in July, which set a positive direction for expanding bilateral relations. He also expressed anticipation for the upcoming visit of Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin for the SCO council meeting next month.
Ishaq Dar announced that a Russian delegation will visit Pakistan in October. Preparations are underway for organizing the Pak-Russian intergovernmental commission on trade, economy, science and technology, and culture, which is scheduled to take place in Russia by the end of the year.
Pakistan views Russia as a key player in West, South, and Central Asia. Both countries have a strong partnership regarding Afghanistan and aim to continue their collaboration for peace and stability in the region. Additionally, Pakistan acknowledges Russia’s historic ties with the Muslim world, its growing cooperation with the OIC, and its stance on the Palestine conflict.
Ishaq Dar expressed Pakistan’s deep appreciation for the Russian government’s stance on respecting all religions, emphasizing that freedom of speech should not disrespect revered figures or hurt the sentiments of the Muslim Ummah. He thanked Russia and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to deepening and strengthening cooperation with the Russian Federation.
Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexei Overchuck expressed his honor in meeting with Pakistan, highlighting efforts to expand economic and cultural ties. He noted a growing interest in advancing their relationship, which is rooted in 75 years of diplomatic relations.
He noted that Russia engaged in extensive discussions with Dar today covering all sectors of the economy, identifying areas where both countries can support each other. These discussions encompassed a wide range of topics, including energy, trade, connectivity, education, and business-to-business and people-to-people contacts.
Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexei Overchuck stated that there is interest in expanding the regional dimensions of these contacts. He mentioned discussions on cooperation with international organizations, including the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, with a council meeting set to take place in Pakistan within a month.
Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexei Overchuck noted that their goals and visions for economic ties and cooperation within the Shanghai Cooperation Organization are well aligned, aiming to improve regional connectivity, increase the use of national currencies, and address the climate agenda, food security, energy transition, and energy security.
He said on Thursday, Russian representatives and relevant (Pakistani) authorities will discuss a wide range of issues and projects in greater detail. “We also explored cooperation prospects between Pakistan and the economic union of five member states, including Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Russia, and Kyrgyzstan,” as well as opportunities for a free trade agreement between Pakistan and these five countries.
This year, he said Russia will host the BRICS summit. BRICS, a regional organization of four nations, serves as a platform for discussions based on mutual respect and consensus. The relationship within BRICS has grown stronger, attracting many countries, and we are pleased that Pakistan has applied for membership. Both BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization are aligned, and we support Pakistan’s application, having seen significant expansion in BRICS last year.
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