ISLAMABAD: Russian Foreign Min­ister Sergey Lavrov reaffirmed Mos­cow’s desire on Tuesday to expand cooperation with Pakistan, underscoring shared interests in economic development, regional connectivity and counter-terrorism.

Mr Lavrov’s remarks came during a meeting with Tariq Fatemi, special as­­sistant to the Pakistan’s prime minister, who is leading a delegation to Moscow.

The visit is part of Islamabad’s diplomatic outreach to key capitals following last month’s military conflict with India after the Pahalgam attack.

Pakistan Foreign Office statement said Fatemi, during the meeting, reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties with Russia, particularly in sectors such as energy, trade and infrastructure. He also handed over a letter from Prime Minister Nawaz Sha­rif to Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Both sides reaffirm commitment to boost cooperation in energy, trade, counter-terrorism

Mr Fatemi briefed Mr Lavrov on the recent conflict with India and expressed concern over Indian moves to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty, according to the statement. He also highlighted the risks of escalation and underscored Pakistan’s commitment to peace and diplomacy.

Mr Lavrov expressed satisfaction with the progress in bilateral relations, the statement said, and noted key collaborative projects, including the $2.6 billion revival of Pakistan Steel Mills and initiatives under the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).

He reaffirmed Russia’s readiness to expand cooperation, particularly in counter-terrorism and regional connectivity.

On India-Pakistan relations, Mr Lavrov reiterated Russia’s call for normalisation between the two nuclear-armed neighbours, saying improved ties would contribute to regional stability.

Besides presenting the Pakistani perspective, the delegations are visiting abroad to emphasise Pakistan’s restrained posture and advocate for dialogue over confrontation.

Russia adopted a neutral stance in the aftermath of the Pahalgam incident. While condemning the attack as “barbaric”, Moscow stopped short of endorsing India’s allegations against Pakistan.

Lavrov had offered Russian mediation during the tense phase between India and Pakistan. Moscow’s growing engagement with Islamabad — including defe­nce deals, energy cooperation and regular joint military exercises — reflects a strategic shift to diversify partnerships across the region.

Published in Dawn, June 4th, 2025