Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif underscored the robust and independent nature of Pakistan-Russia relations during his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday. Speaking from Kazakhstan’s capital, Astana, where he is attending the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summits, PM Shehbaz stressed the importance of boosting bilateral cooperation between the two nations.
“Our relations stand on our own strength, neither driven by any geopolitical contingency nor impacted by our relations with other countries,” PM Shehbaz stated.
This assertion highlights Pakistan’s commitment to fostering a strong, autonomous relationship with Russia, focusing on mutual benefits rather than external influences.
PM Shehbaz emphasized the need to resolve financial and banking issues to facilitate the expansion of barter trade between Pakistan and Russia. He reminisced about the historical business ties between the two countries, noting that Pakistan previously imported machinery and goods from Russia while exporting textiles and leather products under barter agreements.
“The current trade volume, which stands at around one billion dollars, has significant potential for growth,” he remarked. PM Shehbaz also lauded President Putin’s efforts in promoting energy cooperation, mentioning Pakistan’s recent oil shipment from Russia and expressing the desire to further enhance this collaboration.
Reflecting on the bilateral relations, PM Shehbaz noted that the ties between Pakistan and Russia have been on a positive trajectory for several years, providing great comfort and opportunities for both nations. He expressed his desire to work closely with President Putin to further cement these relations.
During his visit to Kazakhstan, PM Shehbaz is accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar, along with senior cabinet members and officers. The prime minister is set to present Pakistan’s perspectives on key regional and global issues at the SCO Heads of State meeting and will also address the SCO Plus summit.
The prime minister’s participation in the summits underscores Pakistan’s active role in addressing significant regional and global challenges. He will present Pakistan’s position on various issues, emphasizing the SCO’s role in enhancing the welfare of the region’s people.
Additionally, PM Shehbaz is likely to engage in a round of trilateral meetings involving Pakistan, Turkiye, and Azerbaijan, furthering regional cooperation and dialogue on key issues.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s visit to Kazakhstan and his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin signify a strengthened commitment to bolstering Pakistan-Russia relations. By focusing on independent, mutually beneficial cooperation and addressing trade and energy collaboration, both nations aim to enhance their partnership and contribute to regional stability and growth
