Islamabad: Valentina Matvienko Speaker of Federation Council of Russian Federal Assembly has expressed that Russia values Pakistan as significant player on international stage. Her remarks came during meeting with National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq and Senate Chairman Yousuf Raza Gilanihere.

Pakistan and Russia signed memorandum of understanding to increase parliamentary cooperation at ceremony held at Parliament House.

Yousuf Raza Gilani and Valentina Matvienko signed MoU on behalf of their respective countries.

Matvienko commended Pakistan’s efforts towards global peace and reaffirmed Russia’s support for Pakistan’s bid for BRICS membership. She emphasised importance of collective efforts to foster peace and prosperity on both regional and global fronts.

In response, Sadiq reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to ongoing collaboration with Russia across areas of mutual interest.

He highlighted historical role of parliamentary diplomacy in strengthening bilateral relations and advocated for continuous engagement between two parliaments through parliamentary friendship groups and high-level exchanges to promote mutual learning and shared experiences.

During meeting Senate Chairman Syed Yousuf Raza Gillani was present. Matvienko stated that Russia aims to enhance bilateral cooperation with Pakistan in various fields including trade, investment and diplomacy.

Gillani noted that Matvienko’s visit would provide new impetus to ties between Pakistan and Russia, promoting regional peace, development and prosperity. He appreciated Russia’s support for improvements in Pakistan’s infrastructure, oil and gas sectors.

Gillani underscored necessity of fostering parliamentary relations, mentioning that Pak-Russia friendship group has already been established in Senate of Pakistan.

Published in The Daily National Courier, October, 29 2024

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