ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Russia have agreed to initiate a counter-terrorism dialogue to strengthen security cooperation between the two nations, the Interior Ministry announced on Tuesday.
The agreement was reached during a meeting between Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Russian Ambassador Albert P. Khorev in Islamabad. Both officials discussed bilateral relations, security collaboration, and other matters of mutual interest, according to an official statement.
As part of the agreement, both countries will enhance cooperation in counter-terrorism and anti-narcotics efforts while increasing delegation exchanges to bolster ties. The Russian envoy also invited Pakistani officials to participate in anti-narcotics training programs in Moscow and Siberia.
Interior Minister Naqvi emphasized that terrorism is a global challenge requiring collective efforts and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening relations with Russia. He highlighted the potential for collaboration across various sectors, beyond just security matters.
Last year, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin on the sidelines of the 23rd Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Islamabad. The discussions between the two leaders focused on political, economic, and defense cooperation, with Shehbaz expressing Pakistan’s keen interest in expanding ties with Russia.
During that meeting, Shehbaz also appreciated Moscow’s support for Pakistan’s bid to join BRICS and emphasized the need for closer collaboration in trade, investment, and linguistic exchanges. Both sides agreed to enhance banking sector cooperation to facilitate economic engagement.
