MOSCOW: Pakistan and Russia have reached a new agreement to enhance parliamentary cooperation between the two nations, signalling a deepening of diplomatic ties, state-run Radio Pakistan reported.
The agreement was formalised today in Moscow by Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, Speaker of Pakistan’s National Assembly, and Vyacheslav Volodin, Chairman of the Russian State Duma.
Ayaz Sadiq, accompanied by his parliamentary delegation, on an official visit to Russia.
The accord aims to bolster relations between the legislative bodies of both countries, establishing permanent cooperation mechanisms such as parliamentary committees, commissions, and friendship groups. The agreement also underscores the mutual commitment to strengthening inter-parliamentary dialogue and collaboration.
Earlier on Wednesday, Speaker Sadiq along with a delegation met with Damir Mukhetdinov, the First Deputy Chairman of the Russian Council of Muftis, at Moscow’s Cathedral Mosque.
During the meeting, Sadiq commended Russia’s growing engagement with the Muslim world and reiterated his appreciation for President Vladimir Putin’s firm stance on combating Islamophobia and promoting respect for religious figures.
The discussions also touched on the importance of interfaith dialogue and peaceful coexistence, highlighting the ongoing cooperation in the religio-cultural sphere between Pakistan and Russia.
On Wednesday, Sadiq and Mukhetdinov also expressed solidarity on the Palestinian issue, reaffirming their commitment to continued cooperation on global matters of religious and cultural significance.
The visit also included a moment of solemn remembrance, with Speaker Sadiq laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Moscow’s Alexander Garden, near the Kremlin, to honour the fallen heroes of World War II.
He was joined by Vasily Piskarev, Chairman of the State Duma’s Committee on Security and Anti-Corruption, for the tribute.
The ongoing official visit, which runs from November 27 to 29, is seen as an important step in furthering diplomatic ties between Pakistan and Russia.
