Russia and Pakistan plan to deepen energy cooperation
Russia and Pakistan have similar positions on most important international and regional issues. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said this during bilateral talks with his counterpart from the South Asian country Bilawal Bhutto Zardari.
"We are close with Pakistan on most topical international and regional issues, we cooperate closely in the UN, the SCO and other multilateral platforms"
Sergei Lavrov Russian Foreign Minister
During the meeting, the Russian diplomat also noted that Moscow and Islamabad have a mutual desire to step up cooperation in energy and other areas of the economy.
Lavrov stressed that Pakistan is an important partner of Russia "At a time of profound changes that we are witnessing in the international arena, it is important for us to continue foreign policy exchanges, to compare positions in order to better see the way forward."
For his part, the Pakistani Foreign Minister referred to an important historical date that plays a major role in the relations between the two countries "I am thrilled that this is not only my first visit to Russia as a foreign minister. It coincides with the commemoration of 75 years of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Russia. And I believe I am also the first Prime Minister to visit Russia in 2023. So this is an honour for me", he said.
"Both sides have had a very productive interactions. The Prime Minister of Pakistan Shehbaz Sharif met with President Putin on the sidelines of the SCO. We have recently concluded the 8th session of intergovernmental Commission on trade, economy, scientific and technical cooperation. And I hope the discussions would led to a stronger economic relationship between the two countries. I am happy to note the positive momentum of Russia and Pakistan relations over the past two decades", said Bilawal Bhutto Zardari.
Earlier, Pakistan's Minister of State for Petroleum Musadik Malik, said that Pakistan and Russia would sign an agreement in March to supply oil at a reduced price and a Comprehensive Energy Security Plan.
Earlier, it was reported that Russia intends to increase food grain exports to Pakistan in 2023.
Photo: flickr.com
