Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar says discussions with Russian Russian counterpart Alexei Overchuk were focused on outlining further potential for expansion of economic relations between the two countries

Addressing a news conference in Islamabad this evening, he said that Pakistan-Russia bilateral trade touched the mark of one billion dollar last year, and expansion of trade ties by working out logistic and other related issues is a priority for both the countries.

The Deputy Prime Minister said energy cooperation with Russia holds potential, and we aim to explore this avenue further. He said Pakistan is also eager to develop connectivity projects, including rail and road networks between two countries and beyond. 

Talking about regional cooperation, Ishaq Dar said Pakistan views Russia as an important player in the West, South and Central Asia, and strengthening mutually beneficial cooperation with Russia remains an important priority for Pakistan's foreign policy.                               

He said Islamabad aims to continue cooperation with Moscow on realizing the common goal of peace and stability in Afghanistan.

Noting Russia's historically strong relations with Muslim world, OIC and its position on Palestine conflict, Ishaq Dar said Pakistan greatly appreciates Russia's stance that freedom of speech must not be an instrument to disrespect a revered personality or religion and not to hurt sentiments of Muslim Ummah.

He hoped to continue high-level contacts and reiterated Pakistan's commitment to deepen and strengthen relations with Russia.

On his part, the Russian Deputy Prime Minister said he discussed prospects for collaboration between Pakistan and Eurasian Economic Union which consists of Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Caucasia and Russia. He said we have discussed opportunities for implementing free trade agreement between Pakistan and these five countries and we look forward to further discussing and finalizing the agreement.  

The Russian Deputy Prime Minister said inter-governmental commission meeting later this year in Russia will provide an opportunity to further trade and economic relations between the two countries.

Alexei Overchuk said our goals and visions for development and economic ties within the SCO are very much aligned including connectivity, addressing the climate agenda, food security, energy transition and energy security.