In the beginning of his visit to the Russian Federation, Syed Tariq Fatemi, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM), met Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on Tuesday.
During the meeting, the SAPM conveyed Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s warm greetings and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation with Russia across multiple sectors, including energy, connectivity, and trade.
He also gave a comprehensive briefing on recent developments in South Asia, highlighting Pakistan’s concerns over the risk of escalation in the region. In particular, he emphasized serious implications of India’s threat to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty.
Foreign Minister Lavrov expressed satisfaction with the continued growth in Pakistan-Russia relations, underscoring major initiatives such as the development of new steel mills and joint connectivity projects.
He noted Russia’s eagerness to strengthen collaboration with Pakistan under the framework of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), especially in counter-terrorism efforts.
On the subject of Pakistan-India relations, Minister Lavrov reiterated Russia’s support for fostering normal, constructive ties between the two countries, noting the potential positive impact on regional stability.
The SAPM also personally delivered a letter from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif addressed to President Vladimir Putin.