Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has expressed a strong desire for Pakistan to enhance its cooperation with Russia across various sectors including trade, economic ties, energy, connectivity, and security. The Prime Minister’s remarks came during a meeting with Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation Alexei Overchuk, who visited him in Islamabad.

According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Prime Minister Sharif highlighted the importance of strengthening bilateral relations with Russia, which he described as a key priority in Pakistan’s foreign policy. He also mentioned his anticipation for the upcoming visit of Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin to Islamabad next month.

During the discussions, Sharif recalled his productive conversation with President Vladimir Putin earlier in July and expressed gratitude towards President Putin for sending a high-level delegation to explore further avenues for bilateral cooperation. In response, Deputy Prime Minister Overchuk thanked Sharif for the hospitality and affirmed Russia’s commitment to deepening its relationship with Pakistan. Overchuk described the bilateral relations as constructive and mutually beneficial.

Furthermore, both parties agreed to maintain regular contacts to foster continued collaboration. A significant outcome of the visit was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Russia and Pakistan, witnessed by Prime Minister Sharif. The MoU underscores the mutual interest of both nations to strengthen cooperation in sectors such as trade, investment, energy, IT, agriculture, science and technology, and education.