POLITICS & POLICY MAKING

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Russian President Putin Discuss Strengthening Bilateral Relations at SCO Meeting in Astana

PM Shehbaz Sharif and President Putin discuss trade, energy, and mutual cooperation at the SCO meeting in Astana.
2024-07-03
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Russian President Putin Discuss Strengthening Bilateral Relations at SCO Meeting in Astana

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with Russian President Vladimir Putin during the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Council of Heads of State meeting in Astana. The leaders discussed a range of important issues, focusing on bolstering bilateral relations in sectors such as trade and energy.

 

Prime Minister Sharif emphasized the long-standing friendly relations between Pakistan and Russia, stating, "No geo-political change can affect our relations. The ties between our countries are moving in a positive direction, and we must further expand our cooperation."

 

President Putin echoed these sentiments, expressing his happiness at meeting Prime Minister Sharif again since their last encounter in Samarkand two years ago. He highlighted the excellent relations between the two countries and the potential for increased cooperation in energy, agriculture, and food security.

 

During the meeting, both leaders agreed on the need to resolve financial and banking issues to facilitate trade under a barter system. They also discussed plans to elevate their trade volume to one billion dollars and expand cooperation in the energy sector, with Pakistan seeking to increase its oil imports from Russia.

 

Prime Minister Sharif also congratulated President Putin on his recent electoral success, further solidifying the cordial atmosphere of the discussions.

 

In addition to his meeting with President Putin, Prime Minister Sharif is set to attend the SCO Plus Summit, where he will present Pakistan's perspective on regional and global issues. He will also engage in bilateral meetings with other participating leaders, including the President of Uzbekistan, Shaukat Mirzayev, and participate in a trilateral discussion with Turkey and Azerbaijan.

 

The Prime Minister’s participation in these high-level engagements underscores Pakistan’s active role in regional cooperation and its commitment to fostering strong international partnerships.