ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar stated that discussions with his Russian counterpart, Alexei Overchuk, focused on expanding economic relations between Pakistan and Russia.
At a news conference along with his Russian counterpart in Islamabad, Dar highlighted that bilateral trade reached one billion dollars last year, emphasizing the importance of addressing logistical and related issues to enhance trade ties.
He noted that energy cooperation with Russia presents significant potential, and Pakistan is eager to explore this further. Moreover, Dar mentioned plans to develop connectivity projects, including rail and road networks between the two countries and beyond.
On regional cooperation, he described Russia as a key player in West, South, and Central Asia, underscoring that strengthening mutually beneficial relations with Russia is a priority for Pakistan’s foreign policy. Dar expressed Pakistan’s commitment to collaborate with Moscow on achieving peace and stability in Afghanistan.
He acknowledged Russia’s historical ties with the Muslim world, its stance in the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), and its position on the Palestine conflict. He appreciated Russia’s commitment to ensuring that freedom of speech does not disrespect revered figures or religions, emphasizing sensitivity towards the sentiments of the Muslim Ummah.
Dar expressed hope for continued high-level contacts and reaffirmed Pakistan’s dedication to deepening relations with Russia.
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In response, Deputy Prime Minister Overchuk discussed the prospects for collaboration between Pakistan and the Eurasian Economic Union, which includes Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Caucasus, and Russia. He mentioned ongoing discussions about implementing a free trade agreement between Pakistan and these five countries, looking forward to finalizing the agreement.
Overchuk noted that an upcoming inter-governmental commission meeting in Russia would provide an opportunity to further enhance trade and economic relations between the two nations.
He added that their goals and visions for development within the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) are well-aligned, particularly regarding connectivity, climate issues, food security, energy transition, and energy security.
