PM Shehbaz and Russian PM Mikhail Mishustin Discuss Strengthening Bilateral Ties at SCO Meeting

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin at the Prime Minister’s House during the 23rd SCO Council of Heads of Government (CHG) meeting, where they discussed expanding bilateral cooperation. The leaders acknowledged the positive growth in Pakistan-Russia relations over the past two decades and committed to strengthening ties in areas such as trade, industry, energy, science, and education.

Prime Minister Shehbaz fondly recalled his first official visit to Moscow and expressed a desire to build a long-term friendship with Russia. He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to enhancing political, economic, and defense cooperation, with both sides agreeing to further their collaboration at multilateral forums like the UN and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

Shehbaz Sharif also thanked Russia for its support of Pakistan’s bid for BRICS membership, signaling deeper collaboration on the global stage.

In addition, the Pakistani premier proposed the establishment of direct flights between Russia and Pakistan to boost connectivity.

Prime Minister Mishustin praised Pakistan’s excellent arrangements for the SCO CHG meeting and expressed his interest in elevating bilateral cooperation to new levels. Both leaders agreed to promote cultural exchanges, people-to-people ties, and closer cooperation between the banking sectors of the two nations to facilitate trade and investment.