Russia has welcomed the normalization of relations between Pakistan and India but avoided any statement on the worst situation of human rights in Jammu Kashmir, taking no exception of unilateral alteration of special status of Indian Occupied Valley on 05 Aug 2019.
Foreign Ministers of Russia and Pakistan held delegation dialogue at MOFA Islamabad on 07 April in which the whole gamut of bilateral relations came under discussion. Both countries agreed to enhance the present level of cooperation to new heights as both FMs shared with media that sky is the limit. At the same time the press conference wrapped up in short time taking 3 questions only from the media. FM Qureshy excused the press that the guest has to move to PM house where a meeting is getting late.
MOFA Pakistan shared that during various interactions, the entire gamut of ties and enhancing understanding on mutual areas of interest particularly in the fields of security and defence, energy, counter-terrorism, Afghan peace process, economy and trade was discussed.
Russian FM, Mr Sergey Lavrov was concerned over almost all regional and international conflicts, from one corner of Asia to another and from ASEAN to Middle East and North Africa but not on Jammu & Kashmir. He did not utter a word on what is happening in Jammu Kashmir at the hands of one million Indian security personnel. FM Qureshy claimed that we discussed JK as well but Russian counterpart gestured as he took no part in the discussion.
Mr. Sergey Lavrov expressed satisfaction on bilateral trade that what he noted increased up to 45 % in last year. The volume reached to $ 790 Million.
Here it is worth mentioning that the balance of this trade in the favor of Russia as the major part of the trade remained the supply of wheat from Russia as pointed out by the visiting dignitary.
Mr Lavrov said that we will move ahead in energy sector especially for the construction of North South Gas Pipeline. We are ready to launch the construction and we discussed it in our dialogue.
Anti terrorism potential of Pakistan will be enhanced, both countries will conduct more military exercises including maritime exercise. Pakistan is playing very active role at SCO in anti terrorism.” FM continued.
He further shared that both countries are concerned on the worsening situation in Afghanistan. We need to further facilitate the parties there.”
The guest FM said that Situation in Yemen, Syria, Libya, Palestine was discussed – He noted that tensions in region should not stop establishment of Palestine state – situation in Asia Pacific discussed in detail.
Regarding Asia Pacific, Mr. Sergey opined that USA promotes divisive strategy that changes situation in the region. We see key role of ASEAN here.
Replying to a question about local production of Russian Vaccine Sputnik in Pakistan, Mr. Lavrov said that we supplied 50 thousand vaccines so far to Pakistan. Russia will send 150 thousand more to combat the pandemic of COVID-19. We are ready for its production in Pakistan.
“Russia to cooperate with Nuclear Energy Commission of Pakistan on medicine and health.” FM said.
He was asked to comment on Iran Pakistan India pipe line by state media PTV’s reporter but the FM answered that we have not discussed it. This project is frozen.
Mr Shah Mehmood Qureshy said that Russia is a factor of stability on regional and global arena. Russia always advocated multilateralism and centralization of UNO. Pakistan is keen to enhance multi dimensional cooperation with Russia – We want global security – we will promote trade economic relations – we are broadening trade links and investment.
“This year intergovernmental commission meeting in Moscow is expected – We are working on the solution to North South Gas impediments. There is consensus on the implementation of the project.” FM Qureshy assured.
He said that defence cooperation was also discussed – we will help each other on strategic stability, counter terrorism – Afghan solution – both see eye to eye – both cooperating on stability in Afghanistan – envoys has been instructed to remain in close contact – South Asia Security was also focused- Jammu Kashmir human rights violations – 2003 ceasefire on LoC discussed.
Mr. Qureshy added that the visit will further deepen relations – Road ahead is just a beginning of Road to Home. We are interested in purchasing of 5 million doses of Sputnik vaccine – Russia can help in upgrading Jamshoro power and Pakistan Railway.
He said that Sputnik is unique -well accepted – people of Pakistan confidant – It arises great opportunities of local production with Russian cooperation.
Full Transcript by Russian Foreign Ministry is Here;
