Beijing -In a significant diplomatic engagement on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit, Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif of Pakistan met with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss strengthening bilateral ties and expanding cooperation across key sectors2.

During the meeting, both leaders expressed mutual respect and a shared commitment to deepening Pakistan-Russia relations. Prime Minister Sharif thanked President Putin for his invitation to visit Russia and emphasized Pakistan’s interest in building a future-oriented partnership. The leaders discussed expanding collaboration in energy, agriculture, transport, and trade, with Sharif noting that oil imports from Russia had already boosted bilateral trade.

President Putin conveyed his condolences over recent floods in Pakistan and reaffirmed Russia’s support for regional peace and development. The meeting also included senior Pakistani officials, including Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir.

This diplomatic exchange highlights Pakistan’s active role in regional affairs and its strategic outreach to global powers. Both nations signaled their intent to continue working together toward mutual prosperity and stability.