Beijing, In a significant diplomatic development, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with Russian President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of his visit to Beijing, where both leaders discussed deepening bilateral relations and regional cooperation.
During the warm and cordial meeting, President Putin officially invited PM Shehbaz Sharif to participate in the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit, set to be held in Moscow. The invitation was gratefully accepted by the Pakistani Prime Minister, who said he looked forward to visiting Russia.
“We want to elevate ties with Russia,” says PM Shehbaz
Speaking during the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized Pakistan’s desire to enhance trade and cooperation across various sectors with Russia. He noted that bilateral ties have strengthened over time, and Pakistan seeks to take this partnership to new strategic and economic heights.
He added, “Pakistan aims to promote peace and prosperity in the region, and we view Russia as a vital partner in this mission.”
The meeting was also attended by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, highlighting the high-level nature of the engagement.
Putin Expresses Solidarity with Flood-Hit Pakistan
President Putin, in his remarks, expressed sympathy over the recent flood devastation in Pakistan, offering support and goodwill. He affirmed that Russia values its relationship with Pakistan and views it as a trusted partner in the region.
“We need to move forward together in various sectors,” said President Putin, adding that both countries share similar views on key international issues, including those raised at the United Nations and other global forums.
Shared Vision for Regional Stability
Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing cooperation within the SCO framework, focusing on regional security, economic integration, and multilateral dialogue. The meeting signals a continued convergence of interests between Islamabad and Moscow, especially in the evolving geopolitical climate of Eurasia.
