Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has expressed his desire to strengthen ties with Russia, saying Islamabad respects Moscow’s relations with India but also wants to build a robust partnership with Russia. His remarks came during a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in China on Tuesday.

Meeting During SCO Summit

Both leaders are in China to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Tianjin, followed by a grand military parade in Beijing on Wednesday. The parade will mark the 80th anniversary of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression.

During their meeting, Sharif praised the growth of Pakistan-Russia ties in recent years. “Our relations have only improved over the past many years. Thanks to your commitment and interest in many areas. I also intend to decisively strengthen our bilateral ties,” Sharif said.

Respect for Russia-India Relations

Sharif acknowledged Russia’s close relationship with India and stressed that Pakistan’s ties with Moscow would complement regional stability.
“I must say that we respect your relations with India. That is perfectly fine. But we also want to build very strong relations (with Russia). And these relations will be supplementary and complementary for the good and for the progress and prosperity of the region,” he explained.

The prime minister also thanked Putin for his continued support and described him as a “dynamic leader.” He added that Pakistan’s relationship with Russia is “moving in the right direction.”

Putin Calls for Greater Regional Cooperation

Putin highlighted the positive trajectory of Pakistan-Russia ties and underlined the role of the SCO in promoting peace and stability. He said that cooperation through platforms like the SCO could help address regional and global security challenges.

The two leaders also discussed key geopolitical issues, including the situations in South Asia, Afghanistan, the Middle East, and the ongoing Ukraine conflict.

According to Radio Pakistan, they exchanged views on long-standing disputes of international concern, such as Palestine and Kashmir, and explored ways to work together through multilateral forums.

Invitation to Visit Russia

During the meeting, Putin invited Sharif to visit Russia in November for a high-level SCO meeting of heads of government.

Sharif accepted the invitation, saying, “I would be very happy to visit Russia.”