MOSCOW, Apr 13 (IN): Pakistan’s Ambassador to Russia, Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, has said that Islamabad and Moscow are steadily enhancing cooperation in key areas including energy, trade, defence and regional security, reflecting growing strategic alignment between the two countries.
In an exclusive interview with APP, the ambassador said Pakistan would warmly welcome Russian President Vladimir Putin on a future visit, noting that he enjoys considerable respect among the Pakistani people.Highlighting economic engagement, he said both countries are working to strengthen collaboration in the energy sector, a key pillar of bilateral relations.
He further stated that Pakistan and Russia have begun conducting bilateral trade in alternative currencies such as the Russian ruble and Chinese yuan due to global financial constraints, adding that transactions are no longer being carried out in US dollars.“Both countries are adopting alternative currency mechanisms for trade in view of global financial restrictions,” he noted.
Tirmizi also said Pakistan is keen to join BRICS, describing it as an emerging and influential platform in the global economic landscape, and expressed hope for broader international support for its inclusion.He noted that Pakistan-Russia relations have expanded significantly in recent years, covering energy, defence, economic cooperation and regional security.
On security cooperation, the ambassador said both countries are actively collaborating on counter-terrorism efforts and are members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation’s Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS).He also announced that joint military exercises between Pakistani and Russian forces are scheduled to take place in Pakistan in September this year, highlighting deepening defence ties.The ambassador reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to further strengthening its multifaceted partnership with Russia to promote regional stability and mutual economic growth.
