Russia reaffirms bilateral cooperation in economy, trade, defence

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ISLAMABAD: Russia has reaffirmed the commitment to promote bilateral cooperation with Pakistan in diverse fields including economy, trade and defence.

The resolve was expressed by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov during delegation level talks with Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi here on Wednesday.

Later speaking at a joint news conference, the Russian Foreign Minister said his country stands ready to further build counter terrorism potential through provision of military equipment.

This, he said, is in the interest of all states of the region and both the sides have agreed to further conduct military exercises and drills.

Sergey Lavrov expressed satisfaction over 46 percent increase in bilateral trade. He however stressed there is need to further diversify it,  reported Radio Pakistan.

Stream Gas Pipeline project

The Russian Foreign Minister said both the countries are now discussing a new protocol on Stream Gas Pipeline project and as soon as it is signed, the construction work on the project will be started.

Regarding the gas pipeline project, the Pakistan FM said we have overcome many of the obstacles, reassuring the Russian counterpart that Pakistan wants to go ahead and committed to the project.

Covid-19 Vaccine

Russian Foreign Minister said we have provided 50,000 doses of anti Covid vaccine to Pakistan and intend to provide 150 thousand more.

Voicing concern over the deteriorating security situation in Afghanistan, he said Pakistan and Russia have agreed to further facilitate the parties to reach an agreement to put an end to civil war through an inclusive political dialogue.

Sergey Lavrov said we believe that against the backdrop of tensions in the region, we should not forget the task of establishment of the state of Palestine. He said Russia stands ready to facilitate direct dialogue between Palestine and Israel.

Russia is a factor of stability in the region

On the occasion, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said Pakistan is keen to build a strong multifaceted relationship with Russia.

He said there is a new approach and mindset in Pakistan for relationship with Russia. We feel that not just we have geographic proximity but Russia is a factor of stability in the region and the world at large.

Shah Mahmood Qureshi said Pakistan wants to build a relationship of trust with Russia. He said Moscow has always advocated primacy of international law and multilateralism. These are principles that Pakistan adheres to. Our coordination and cooperation at the United Nations level has been excellent.

He reaffirmed the commitment to deepen relations with Pakistan and create win-win cooperation between the two countries.

Mr Qureshi said we have agreed to hold the intergovernmental commission meeting this year in Moscow, expressing the confidence it will lay the foundation for a more meaningful economic relationship between the two countries.