Islamabad: President Asif Ali Zardari has called for bolstering cooperation between Pakistan and Russia in areas such as trade, energy, connectivity, and security. During a meeting with Russian Interior Minister Vladimir Kolokoltsev at Aiwan-e-Sadr, President Zardari emphasized the importance of converting the positive relations between the two nations into concrete benefits for their citizens.

According to Press Information Department, President Zardari highlighted that bilateral relations are progressing independently of global geopolitical dynamics and stressed the need to utilize existing institutional frameworks to enhance cooperation. He pointed out that the current bilateral trade volume, which stood at $243.412 million in 2025, does not fully reflect the potential of the relationship.

President Zardari identified Russia as a significant energy partner and expressed Pakistan’s interest in deepening collaboration in the oil and gas sectors. He also underscored Pakistan’s strategic geographical location as a bridge among South, Central, and West Asia, advocating for enhanced connectivity through projects like the International North-South Transport Corridor and improved rail and road links.

The President also addressed the growth in educational exchanges and called for reciprocal visa facilitation from Russia to support Pakistani businessmen, tourists, and students. He expressed concerns over regional security issues, especially in the Gulf, and advocated for diplomatic solutions to escalating tensions.

Russian Interior Minister Kolokoltsev acknowledged the strong bilateral ties and potential for increasing trade. He invited President Zardari to visit Russia, highlighting the mutual benefits of expanding bilateral cooperation. The meeting was attended by Russian Ambassador Albert P. Khorev and Pakistan’s Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi.