Moscow: In a significant move to bolster bilateral relations, Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani, Chairman of the Senate of Pakistan, met with Valentina Matvienko, Chairperson of the Federation Council of the Russian Federation, in Moscow. The meeting marked a renewed commitment to enhance parliamentary diplomacy, with both leaders emphasizing the importance of cooperation for regional peace, trade, and stability.
Chairman Gilani, who was invited by Ms. Matvienko, expressed gratitude for the warm reception, highlighting the global significance of Pakistan-Russia collaboration. He stressed the role of high-level meetings in fostering mutual understanding and cooperation. Gilani also congratulated Russian leadership on the 80th anniversary of Victory Day.
The discussions covered a range of topics, including regional security, energy cooperation, and people-to-people connections. Ms. Matvienko praised Mr. Gilani’s long-standing relationship with Russia, noting his influence in strengthening bilateral ties. She reiterated Russia’s interest in deepening cooperation under the existing Memorandum of Understanding between the two parliamentary bodies.
Both leaders underscored the strategic importance of parliamentary diplomacy in promoting understanding amidst geopolitical tensions. Chairman Gilani highlighted the stabilizing role of inter-parliamentary ties in volatile regions like Afghanistan and South Asia. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to peace and dialogue, particularly concerning Jammu and Kashmir, and urged Russia to facilitate peace efforts between Pakistan and India.
Mr. Gilani called for an independent investigation into recent escalations and condemned unilateral actions such as the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty. He stressed the need for dialogue over conflict and reaffirmed Pakistan’s dedication to diplomatic solutions.
The leaders also discussed trade and economic cooperation, emphasizing the potential for enhanced commerce between Pakistan and Russia. Mr. Gilani advocated for accelerated progress in joint ventures, particularly in energy sectors, and highlighted the significance of business-to-business engagement.
Cultural and educational exchanges were also on the agenda, with calls for increased university partnerships and student exchanges. The resumption of direct flights was seen as a potential boost for tourism and trade.
Reflecting on Pakistan’s fight against terrorism, Mr. Gilani invoked his personal experiences to emphasize the nation’s resilience. He highlighted the global recognition of figures like Malala Yousafzai as symbols of Pakistan’s defiance and strength.
The meeting, attended by high-ranking officials, including Deputy Chairman Konstantin Kosachev and Pakistan’s Ambassador Khalid Muhammad Jamali, was conducted in a warm and constructive atmosphere, reinforcing the strong ties between the two nations.