ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif said on Sunday that Pakistan’s longstanding partnership with the Russian Federation as well as with its Muslim regions, including the Republic of Tatarstan, would witness significant progress in all areas of mutual interest.

The prime minister reiterated his resolve to establish a strong partnership between Pakistan and Russia in all fields as this cooperation would positively contribute to promoting peace and stability in the region.

He was talking to the President of Republic of Tatarstan, Rustam Minni­khanov, who called on him at the PM House, according to a press release.

While warmly welcoming the Tatarstan leader and his delegation to Pakistan, Mr Sharif said that longstanding bilateral relations were the manifestation of a common desire to explore possibilities for enhancing cooperation between Pakistan and Russia.

He emphasised that Pakistan was pursuing a policy of peaceful neighbourhood and wished to resolve all outstanding issues with its neighbours through dialogue.

Mr Minnikhanov thanked the prime minister for extending warm hospitality during his visit to Pakistan and said that the Tatar business delegation held fruitful meetings in Lahore.

Mr Sharif expressed the hope that the joint business forum with businessmen from both sides would develop mutually beneficial contacts and help boost bilateral trade.

Cooperation in sectors, including banking, Halal food, production of cement, automotive industry, pharmaceuticals, technology, culture and education, should be explored, he added.

Published in Dawn, March 20th, 2017