PM, Russian President discuss Kashmir, Palestine issues

F.P. Report

BEIJING: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has said Pakistan is keen to enhance bilateral relations with Russia in areas such as trade connectivity, energy, agriculture, investment, defence, artificial intelligence, education, culture and people-to-people exchanges.

He was speaking at a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Beijing today.

The Prime Minister said Pakistan attaches immense importance to its relations with Russia. He also shared that it was heartening to note that both countries have almost similarity of approaches on various global platforms.

Furthermore, Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the need for regular engagement of the established institutional mechanisms between the two countries. He further stressed that tangible initiatives such as the flagship project of the proposed Pakistan Steel Mill Karachi and investment in connectivity projects would be symbols of Pakistan-Russia friendship for the generations to come.

Agreeing with the assessment of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on bilateral relations, President Vladimir Putin noted the upward trajectory of ties between the two countries. He also stressed the importance of collaboration in organizations such as the SCO which in turn can serve a major role in regional and global security and stability. Moreover, he expressed Russia’s commitment to further strengthen bilateral cooperation with Pakistan across a broad array of subjects.

Recalling their last meeting in Astana last year, both leaders expressed great satisfaction on expanding cooperation and increasing momentum over the course of past one year.

Both leaders acknowledged that the relationship today is underpinned by mutual trust, respect and warmth between the two sides.

The two leaders also discussed the situation in South Asia, Afghanistan, the Middle East and Ukraine conflict. They also exchanged views on ongoing cooperation at the multilateral forums, as well as on the long-standing issues and disputes of global interest such as Palestine and Kashmir.

The Russian President extended a most cordial invitation to the Prime Minister to undertake an official visit to Russia.