Islamabad: In a significant diplomatic engagement on the sidelines of the 23rd Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Council of Heads of Government meeting, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif met with his Russian counterpart, Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, to discuss and enhance bilateral relations between their nations.

According to Press Information Department, the two leaders explored a wide array of cooperation opportunities spanning trade, industry, energy, science, technology, and education. The discussions highlighted the strong momentum that has characterized Pakistan-Russia relations over the past two decades, with both sides eager to further solidify this growing partnership.

Prime Minister Sharif reminisced about his initial visit to Moscow, expressing his aspiration to convert those warm encounters into enduring bilateral friendships and strategic partnerships. He reiterated Pakistan’s dedication to fortifying political, economic, and defense ties with Russia, and acknowledged Russia’s support for Pakistan’s recent BRICS membership bid, which marks a significant step toward broader international cooperation.

The meeting also touched upon the enhancement of direct flights between the two countries to boost connectivity, a move that could bolster economic and people-to-people ties. Additionally, the leaders agreed on promoting language exchanges and banking cooperation to facilitate easier trade and investment flows.

Prime Minister Mishustin lauded the excellent arrangements made by Pakistan for the SCO meeting and expressed gratitude for the hospitality received. Both leaders committed to maintaining close collaboration on all matters of mutual interest, aiming to elevate their countries’ relations to new heights.