Moscow: Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Syed Tariq Fatemi has emphasized the prospects of further development of energy cooperation between Pakistan and Russia. He made this emphasis while talking to Russian Minister of Energy and Co-Chair of the Pakistan-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission, Mr. Sergey Tsivilev, during his three-day visit to the Russian Federation that concluded today.

According to Radio Pakistan, both sides took a holistic stock of bilateral relations, identifying key areas of trade, energy, connectivity, new Steel Mills, and cybersecurity for future cooperation. Syed Tariq Fatemi briefed Sergey Tsivilev on the recent developments in South Asia, while lauding Russia’s role in de-escalating tensions. Sergey Tsivilev expressed satisfaction with the outcomes of the ninth Pakistan-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission held in Moscow last year and hoped for a productive next IGC in Pakistan this year, adding that Pakistan has the potential to become a transit hub.

Later, the SAPM called on Mr. Yury Ushakov, Senior Aide to the President on Foreign Policy Issues. During the meeting, Syed Tariq Fatemi briefed the Russian side on the recent escalation in South Asia and outlined Pakistan’s position vis- -vis India’s actions, especially unilaterally holding the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance.

Besides these meetings, the SAPM gave two interviews to leading Russian TV networks, expressing his views on the positive trends in Pakistan-Russia relations and recent escalation between Pakistan and India. He also had an extensive exchange of views with a group of academics and journalists from prominent print and electronic media.

Furthermore, the SAPM was hosted by Valdai Discussion Club, a think-tank in Moscow, for a talk on the recent developments in South Asia and Pakistan-Russia relations. The visit included several important official engagements and exchanges with parliamentarians, a think tank, academics, and journalists, paving the way to share Pakistan’s perspective on the recent situation and issues such as the Indus Waters Treaty with the Russian side.

Earlier, during the visit, Syed Tariq Fatemi also called on Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. There is appreciation for the manner in which Pakistan is enhancing its relations with Russia in areas of trade, investment, energy, and connectivity routes.