Islamabad: Pakistan and Russia have reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing bilateral ties, focusing on expanding cooperation in multiple sectors. This development was highlighted during a meeting between President Asif Ali Zardari and a Russian parliamentary delegation led by Speaker Valentina Matvienko.

According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, President Zardari emphasized that the relationship between Pakistan and Russia is founded on mutual respect and a shared commitment to expand cooperation. He highlighted the potential for increased economic collaboration and welcomed Russian investment in Pakistan. He also stressed the importance of strengthening cultural ties through people-to-people contacts and scholarship programs.

Both parties acknowledged the importance of diversifying trade and economic cooperation. They also discussed enhancing regional connectivity and commercial relations through initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the North-South Transport Corridor. The Russian delegation, led by Speaker Matvienko, emphasized Russia’s priority in maintaining strong relations with Pakistan and expressed optimism that a Memorandum of Understanding between the Parliaments of the two countries would deepen these ties further.

Speaker Matvienko conveyed satisfaction with the current growth in bilateral trade and extended special greetings from President Vladimir Putin. She also congratulated Pakistan on its successful hosting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Heads of Government meeting and its candidacy for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council.