Russia backs Pakistan’s position on drone strikes

Russian foreign minster says drone attacks are a violation of Pakistan's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

ISLAMABAD: Calling drone attacks a violation of Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Thursday that Russia backs Pakistan’s position on this matter.  

Russian foreign minister was speaking to media after his meeting with Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar.

Commenting on the unexpected cancellation of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s much-anticipated visit to Pakistan, Lavrov said the only reason behind the delay was because of scheduling issues.

Stating that the solution for the Afghan problem should come from within the country, the Russian foreign minister stressed that interference from outside would not work.

He also said that Russia welcomes improving ties between Pakistan and India.

Foreign minister Khar informed her counterpart that there is a national consensus in Pakistan that relations with Russia must be strengthened.