ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Russia reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening trade and economic ties, as well as enhancing regional connectivity to bolster bilateral relations.
Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexei Overchuk, who is in Islamabad for a two-day official visit, met with President Asif Ali Zardari at Aiwan-e-Sadr on Thursday.
Both sides emphasized the importance of fostering mutually beneficial cooperation in key sectors, including agriculture, food security, business, education, railways, and science and technology, while also promoting stronger people-to-people connections.
President Zardari highlighted the need to explore barter trade possibilities and improve connectivity to enhance economic relations. He advocated for easing visa regulations and increasing transportation options through railways and direct flights to facilitate business and personal interactions.
The meeting also underscored the significant potential for bilateral cooperation in agriculture, with discussions on joint ventures for mutual benefit. Additionally, it was announced that a 75-member business delegation from Pakistan would visit Russia in October to explore economic collaboration.
Deputy Prime Minister Overchuk expressed Russia’s eagerness to improve cooperation with Pakistan in areas such as food security, science and technology, education, and connectivity. He noted that the upcoming visit of the Russian Prime Minister to Pakistan in October would present another opportunity to further strengthen ties.
Overchuk also conveyed Russia’s respect for all religions and Muslim culture, condemning the desecration of the Holy Quran.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Pakistan People’s Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Minister of Planning Ahsan Iqbal Chaudhary, Minister of Energy Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari, Minister of Communications Abdul Aleem Khan, Minister of Commerce Jam Kamal Khan, Senator Sherry Rehman, and other senior government officials were present at the meeting.
