BEIJING: Pakistan’s Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar on Tuesday met with Russian President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of the Belt and Road Forum in Beijing. During the meeting, the two leaders emphasized exploring ways to further enhance bilateral cooperation in multiple spheres, including defence and trade.
Russian President Putin received Prime Minister Kakar before they held a meeting that encompassed bilateral, regional, and international affairs. During the meeting, both leaders underscored the need to strengthen bilateral cooperation. The discussions focused on enhancing collaboration in multiple sectors, including trade, defense, and energy, while also addressing matters related to regional peace and security.
Prime Minister Kakar, during the meeting, highlighted the convergence of interests between Pakistan and Russia in combating terrorism, particularly in the context of neighboring Afghanistan. He highlighted the importance of neighboring countries taking a proactive approach to cooperate in intelligence sharing, defense, and counter-terrorism efforts to address regional challenges effectively.
Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar meets Russian President, Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of 3rd Belt and Road Forum in Beijing.#PakPMinChina#BRI10Years pic.twitter.com/17IavF6MQr
— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) October 17, 2023
Meeting with Russian President @KremlinRussia_E https://t.co/1IPCAg2iCA
— Anwaar ul Haq Kakar (@anwaar_kakar) October 17, 2023
Energy Cooperation Between Pakistan and Russia
Prime Minister Kakar noted Pakistan’s energy deficit and highlighted recent fruitful engagements between Pakistani and Russian energy officials. He expressed Pakistan’s eagerness to enhance energy cooperation, citing concrete proposals discussed during Pakistan’s Energy Week event in Russia. Pakistan’s energy minister had recently attended an Energy Week event in Russia where he had “fruitful and constructive engagement with the Russian team.
Citing his earlier visit to Russia as a senator, PM Kakar said he was “mesmerized” by the Russian architecture, particularly representing Christianity and churches. Kakar also emphasized the cultural and ethical ties that bind the two nations, which he described as unique and underappreciated.
In his response, President Putin acknowledged the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Russia, expressing optimism about the potential for enhanced cooperation. Citing friendly bilateral ties, Putin said there existed a huge potential for cooperation between Russia and Pakistan. President Putin said both sides would exchange views and discuss the vision and steps needed to be taken to strengthen cooperation in multiple areas.
Putin highlighted the significant progress in trade relations. He said trade relations between the two countries had increased. He also mentioned Russia’s recent supply of approximately one million tons of cereals to Pakistan. Both leaders discussed their vision for strengthened cooperation and explored steps to be taken to expand collaboration in various sectors.
