AVN Report
ISLAMABAD: In a recent meeting with Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called for promoting cooperation in trade, industry, energy, connectivity, science, technology, and education between the two countries.
The meeting, held at the Prime Minister’s House during the 23rd Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Council of Heads of Government, aimed to strengthen bilateral ties.
According to a press release from the Prime Minister’s Office, the leaders reviewed the extensive scope of Pakistan-Russia cooperation, recognising the positive momentum in their relationship over the past two decades.
Mr Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to deepening political, economic, and defence relations with Russia. Both sides agreed to enhance collaboration within multilateral forums, including the United Nations and the SCO.
He lauded Russia’s support for Pakistan’s bid for BRICS membership, calling it a significant move towards deeper global collaboration, also highlighting the importance of establishing direct flights between Pakistan and Russia to improve connectivity.
Mr Mishustin conveyed a strong interest in further strengthening the existing ties between the two countries.
The leaders also agreed to promote cultural exchanges to strengthen people-to-people links and explore banking sector collaboration to facilitate trade and investment.
In related developments, Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan met with Iran’s Minister for Industry, Mining, and Trade, Mohammad Atabak, to explore opportunities for closer cooperation in regional markets, using the SCO platform to boost trade and regional stability.
Both ministers pledged the ongoing dialogue and the development of action plans to address trade barriers and streamline regulations for smoother business operations.
The meeting underscored the importance of regional cooperation through platforms like the SCO, with both Pakistan and Iran seeking to strengthen ties and expand their roles in the global market. Mr Atabak extended an invitation to Mr Khan to visit Iran.
