ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq stated on Monday that parliamentary diplomacy has historically played a crucial role in strengthening bilateral relations between Pakistan and Russia.
During a meeting with Valentina Matvienko, Speaker of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of Russia, Ayaz Sadiq advocated for ongoing engagement between the two parliaments through parliamentary friendship groups and high-level exchanges, aimed at fostering mutual learning and shared experiences.
Sardar Ayaz Sadiq warmly welcomed Matvienko and her delegation, with discussions focused on enhancing bilateral relations, particularly in advancing parliamentary cooperation for mutual benefit. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s longstanding and broad-based relationship with Russia, emphasizing that it is built on mutual respect and trust. “Pakistan’s ties with Russia are a vital component of its foreign policy,” he noted.
In her remarks, Madam Valentina Matvienko expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and congratulated Sardar Ayaz Sadiq on his re-election. She emphasized that Russia values Pakistan as a significant player on the international stage and commended the country’s efforts toward global peace.
Matvienko also reaffirmed Russia’s support for Pakistan’s bid to join BRICS and highlighted the importance of collective efforts to foster peace and prosperity on both regional and global fronts.
Sardar Ayaz Sadiq thanked Matvienko for her kind words and reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to continued collaboration with Russia across various areas of shared interest.
He reflected on past initiatives to strengthen parliamentary ties, recalling the inaugural Six-Country Speakers’ Conference held in Pakistan, which included representatives from Afghanistan, Iran, China, Turkiye, and Russia. This conference was instrumental in addressing common regional issues.
He also mentioned his role as Convener of the Pakistan-Russia Parliamentary Friendship Group during the 15th National Assembly, reinforcing the importance of ongoing dialogue and cooperation.
