President Asif Ali Zardari says Pakistan is keen to promote cooperation in the fields of energy and barter trade with Russia.

He was talking to Russian Ambassador Albert Khorev, who called on him, in Islamabad today.

The President called for encouraging Russian banks to start operations in Pakistan for promotion of trade.

He stressed the need to increase cooperation with Russia in the cultural sector, especially in the field of TV and films.

Congratulating Vladimir Putin on his re-election as the President of the Russian Federation, Asif Ali Zardari hoped faster economic development of Russia under Putin's leadership.

President Zardari also expressed grief over the loss of 130 innocent lives in the terrorist attack in Moscow.

Felicitating Asif Ali Zardari on assuming the office of the President, the Ambassador said Russia is desirous of playing its role in the economic development and prosperity of Pakistan.

He said both the countries are cooperating with each other on common issues, including counterterrorism and anti-smuggling.

The Ambassador said Russia wants to double the trade volume with Pakistan.