BEIJING: Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed Moscow’s commitment to strengthening relations with Pakistan, highlighting the importance of expanding cooperation in trade, energy, and regional connectivity.
The Russian leader made these remarks during a one-on-one meeting with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Beijing.
Russia’s Message of Solidarity
Putin extended his condolences over the devastation caused by recent floods in Pakistan, calling the South Asian nation a “traditional partner” of Russia in Asia. He noted that both countries had been working to expand ties since their previous meeting a year ago at the SCO summit in Astana.
“Pakistan has always been a valued partner for Russia, and we want to build on these relations further,” he said, emphasizing the need to boost bilateral trade and intensify cooperation at diplomatic and parliamentary levels. He also highlighted coordination between the two countries within the United Nations framework.
Putin invited Prime Minister Shehbaz to attend the upcoming SCO summit in Russia scheduled for November.
Pakistan’s Response
In turn, PM Shehbaz reaffirmed Pakistan’s interest in expanding collaboration with Moscow, particularly in commerce, energy, agriculture, steel, and transport sectors. He pointed out that last year’s oil imports from Russia had significantly boosted bilateral trade volumes and said the two countries had signed multiple protocols to promote economic cooperation.
The Prime Minister also underscored the importance of a regional trade corridor stretching from Belarus, Russia, and Central Asia through Afghanistan to Pakistan, calling it a potential driver of connectivity and prosperity.
While acknowledging Russia’s close ties with India, Shehbaz stressed that Pakistan was eager to pursue strong, complementary relations with Moscow, describing President Putin as “a dynamic leader.”
Broader SCO Engagements
Earlier in the day, Shehbaz held talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping, where both leaders reiterated their commitment to deepening the Pakistan-China partnership, particularly through the next phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Xi assured Beijing’s continued support for Pakistan’s economic growth and stability.
During his address to the SCO summit, the Pakistani premier called for respect for sovereignty, stronger regional dialogue, and collective action against terrorism. He underscored Islamabad’s support for multilateralism and peaceful dispute resolution, while also highlighting the need for uninterrupted access to water resources under existing treaties.
“Stability in Afghanistan remains in the interest of the entire region,” Shehbaz said, urging members to foster regional peace through dialogue and cooperation.
