Moscow aims to enhance Pak-Russia bilateral ties: Matviyenko 

ISLAMABAD:  Speaker of the Federation Council of the Russian Federal Assembly Valentina Matviyenko has stated that Russia aims to strengthen its bilateral cooperation with Pakistan across diverse fields, including trade, investment, and diplomacy.

She made these remarks during a meeting with Senate Chairman Yousuf Raza Gillani in Islamabad on Monday.

The two leaders discussed issues related to diplomatic, economic, commercial, and parliamentary relations between their countries. Gillani expressed that Matviyenko’s visit to Pakistan would give new momentum to the relationship, fostering regional peace, development, and prosperity.

He appreciated Russia’s support for Pakistan’s infrastructural development, particularly in the oil and gas sectors. The Senate Chairman also emphasised that promoting parliamentary relations is essential, noting that a Pak-Russia friendship group has already been established in Pakistan’s Senate.

Also read: Geopolitical tensions will not affect Pak-Russia relations: PM Shehbaz

Gillani highlighted the need to explore new opportunities to boost investment in various sectors and increase the current trade volume between the two countries. He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening communications for regional peace.

Valentina Matviyenko conveyed that Russia highly values its relationship with Pakistan. She noted that enhancing parliamentary relations will not only boost trade and investment but will also bring the two peoples closer together.

Later, during a meeting with National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq, Matviyenko praised Pakistan’s efforts toward global peace. She reaffirmed Russia’s support for Pakistan’s BRICS membership bid and emphasised the importance of collective efforts to foster regional and global peace and prosperity.

Ayaz Sadiq reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to ongoing collaboration with Russia in areas of shared interest. He highlighted that parliamentary diplomacy has historically reinforced bilateral relations and advocated for sustained engagement between the two parliaments through friendship groups and high-level exchanges to promote mutual understanding and shared experiences.

Valentina Matviyenko is on a three-day visit to Pakistan at the invitation of Senate Chairman Yousaf Raza Gillani, marking a significant moment in the deepening diplomatic and parliamentary ties between the two nations. She is scheduled to address a special session of the Senate on Monday.

Additionally, Matviyenko will meet with President Arif Alvi and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif during her visit.