Pakistan, Russia hold 4th round of bilateral political consultation

Russian delegation expresses support for Pakistan’s constructive role in Afghan peace process

The 4th round of Bilateral Political Consultations between Pakistan and Russia was held in Moscow July 2, a press release by Foreign Office (FO) stated.

Additional Secretary (Europe) Zaheer A Janjua and Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation I V Morgulov led their respective delegations.

The two sides held a comprehensive review of the bilateral relations and identified areas for further cooperation in political, economic, trade, investment, defence, energy, agriculture, education, culture and tourism.

Janjua also briefed the Russian delegation on the political and economic developments in Pakistan, inviting Russian companies to benefit from Pakistan’s investor-friendly policies, particularly in the fields of energy, transport, infrastructure, oil and gas and tourism.

The two sides also held in-depth discussions to increase cooperation in the field of agriculture and agricultural products, including post-harvest technologies, processing and value addition for meat, milk, fish and shellfish products.

Both sides agreed to enhance parliamentary exchanges to deepen bilateral cooperation and develop an understanding of each other’s views.

Janjua expressed satisfaction at the existing cooperation in the field of energy and called it a strong pillar of partnership. He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to early implementation of the on-going energy projects.

The Russian delegation was also briefed on the situation in South Asia, notably the recent instance of the Indian aggression and Pakistan’s measured response. Janjua highlighted the dire human rights situation in Indian-occupied Kashmir and appreciated Russia’s constructive role in defusing tensions in South Asia.

The additional secretary also shed light on Pakistan’s efforts aimed at peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan. He emphasised that a politically negotiated settlement achieved through an Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process was the only viable way forward. The Russian side also expressed support for Pakistan’s constructive role in the Afghan peace process.

The two sides expressed satisfaction at the level of cooperation at the international forums, including the United Nations.

The consultations also provided an opportunity to take stock of overall relations and discuss ways and means to further enhance cooperation in diverse fields.

The next round of Pakistan-Russia Bilateral Political Consultations will be held in Islamabad in 2020.