Strengthening ties with Russia an ‘important priority’, says Pakistan PM

Strengthening ties with Russia is an “important priority” for Pakistan’s foreign policy, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said yesterday, as Moscow extended support for Islamabad’s BRICS membership

During his meeting with Russia’s Deputy Prime Minister Alexey Overchuk, Sharif said Pakistan is keen to expand trade, economic, energy, connectivity and security cooperation with Moscow.

Overchuk, who arrived in the capital Islamabad for a two-day official visit, reiterated Russia’s resolve to deepen relations with Pakistan, characterising the ties as “constructive” and “mutually beneficial.”

President Asif Ali Zardari also received Overchuk.

​​​​​​​Stressing the importance of exploring the possibilities for barter trade and improving connectivity between the two nations, Zardari called for easing visa regulations for Pakistani citizens.

He also sought increased connectivity through railways and direct flights to facilitate and enhance people-to-people and business-to-business contacts, a statement from his office said.

On Wednesday, Overchuk said Moscow would support Islamabad’s inclusion in BRICS.

During his visit, Pakistan and Russia signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) of bilateral cooperation in the domain of economy and trade at a ceremony at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

BRICS, founded in 2009 with Brazil, Russia, India and China, added South Africa in 2011. Despite several new countries joining in December 2023, the group decided to retain the name BRICS.

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