ISLAMABAD: Speaker of the Federal Council of the Russian Federation, Valentina Matvienko, stated that the Russian parliamentary delegation’s visit to Islamabad would enhance the development cooperation between Russia and Pakistan.
Speaking to the Senate of Pakistan at the invitation of Chairman Syed Yosuf Raza Gillani, she highlighted the long-standing cordial relations between the two nations, saying that dialogue has persisted even during challenging times. Matvienko expressed satisfaction with the growing alignment of their perspectives on many international issues.
She emphasized both countries’ shared interests in achieving a peaceful resolution in Afghanistan and ensuring security in Central Asia. Matvienko expressed confidence that they would maintain mutual understanding on global security matters, including the prevention of weapons in outer space, the prohibition of biological and chemical weapons, and opposition to illegal sanctions and the politicization of humanitarian efforts, including in sports.
Matvienko acknowledged Pakistan’s election to the UN Security Council for the term 2025-2026, recognizing its commitment to the principles of the UN Charter. She expressed hope that Pakistan would contribute significantly to global security and peace during its tenure.
She also noted Pakistan’s balanced position and rich experience, which could offer new perspectives on local issues, particularly given its active participation in UN peacekeeping missions worldwide. Additionally, she praised Pakistan’s deepening ties with BRICS, a platform promoting equality and mutual respect among its members.
The Speaker advocated for stronger collaboration between their parliaments, emphasizing the importance of multilateral interaction and specialized committees. She expressed optimism for joint efforts to improve the legal framework for cooperation.
Matvienko called for the progressive development of trade and economic relations, referencing the historical support from the Soviet Union in developing Pakistan’s oil and gas industries, energy facilities, and agricultural machinery. She highlighted that Russian-Pakistani trade had surged by over 50 percent last year, surpassing one billion dollars for the first time, and continued to grow by 13 percent in early 2024.
She pointed out promising areas for economic cooperation, particularly in energy and agriculture. Matvienko noted the arrival of Russian crude oil in Karachi last year, which now constitutes a significant portion of Russian exports to Pakistan, as well as increased grain supplies contributing to Pakistan’s food security.
Discussing transport initiatives, she highlighted the importance of developing international corridors, such as the North-South International Transport Corridor, which enhances connectivity between Northern Eurasia and the Global South. She welcomed Pakistan’s interest in this project.
Matvienko also noted the revival of cultural and sports cooperation between the two nations, reflecting on the historical ties established by Urdu poet Faiz Ahmed Faiz, who was a friend of Russia. She quoted Faiz, stating that both countries have much to learn from each other, enriching their cultures and expanding their friendship.
She praised the advancements in scientific and educational cooperation, including progress in higher education and diploma recognition. Matvienko noted that youth engagement is growing, with Pakistani representatives participating in the World Youth Festival in Sochi.
Moreover, she observed an increasing interest among Russians in visiting Pakistan and suggested that Pakistan’s recent decision to waive visa fees could enhance tourism and strengthen bilateral relations.
Matvienko concluded by emphasizing the importance of interfaith and interethnic dialogue, highlighting the role of parliaments in fostering communication with religious leaders. She mentioned that the Russian legislature is dedicated to preserving traditional values and family structures, declaring this year as the “Year of the Family” in Russia.
