Islamabad: Minister for Power Sardar Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari has highlighted the substantial potential for boosting trade between Pakistan and Russia. Addressing a webinar in Islamabad focused on Pakistan-Russia bilateral relations, he emphasized the mutual interest in strengthening multilateralism and enhancing the role of international institutions to tackle global challenges.

According to Radio Pakistan, Sardar Awais Leghari pointed out the significant potential for increasing bilateral trade between the two nations. He noted that both countries have been actively discussing ways to promote trade and address existing challenges, such as the lack of a payment mechanism. Furthermore, both sides have agreed to a program of economic cooperation extending until 2030, which is expected to deepen bilateral economic ties.

The Minister also mentioned the recent signing of the Russia-Pakistan Readmission Agreement by the Interior Ministers of both countries in Bishkek last week. This agreement is anticipated to ease visa regulations, facilitating smoother interactions between the two nations.

Sardar Awais Leghari referenced a statement by Russian President Vladimir Putin, who recently acknowledged Pakistan as a significant country with diverse international relations. This recognition underscores Russia's view of Pakistan as a genuine stakeholder on the global stage. Additionally, the Russian Prime Minister's comments about connecting the International North-South Transport Corridor with Pakistan's Gwadar Port were well-received in Islamabad, as this connection is expected to fill a critical gap in China's Belt and Road Initiative.

On the global front, the Minister reiterated Pakistan's advocacy for an inclusive, cooperative, and rule-based international order that upholds sovereign equality, mutual respect, and peaceful dispute resolution. He praised the recent efforts of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir in mediating between Iran and the United States, which garnered appreciation from Russian leaders.

Sardar Awais Leghari emphasized that Pakistan-Russia relations should be viewed within a broader Eurasian framework, where regional cooperation, connectivity, and economic integration play an increasingly pivotal role. He expressed optimism for continued engagements between Islamabad and Moscow, which would contribute to bilateral prosperity and regional stability, fostering a more balanced global order.