Pakistan and Russia have agreed to move forward with the important bilateral agenda and near regional cooperation.

Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi stressed in a telephone conversation with Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov that Pakistan considers Russia an important partner and wishes to forge a long-term, multi-dimensional partnership with Russia.

The two Foreign Ministers discussed issues of mutual interest, including the COVID-19 pandemic, cooperation at multilateral forums, prospects for enhanced bilateral cooperation, and discussed regional issues.

Shah Mahmood Qureshi offered condolences due to the COVID-19 pandemic regarding the loss of precious lives in Russia.

The Foreign Minister learned of the call for “Special Initiative on Debt Relief” for developing countries from his Russian counterpart to Prime Minister Imran Khan.

He said that concerted and systematic action is necessary to build fiscal space that the developing world requires to address the socio-economic impacts of COVID-19.

The Russian Minister of Foreign Affairs expressed support for the debt relief initiative and assured a positive role.

In the context of occupied Kashmir, Shah Mahmood Qureshi shared deep concern about the continuing double lockdown as well as Indian occupation forces intensifying military crackdown and attempts to change the demographic structure of the occupied territory.

He stressed the importance of taking immediate action to address the difficult situation.

In the light of recent positive developments, the two Foreign Ministers also addressed the situation in Afghanistan.

Shah Mahmood Qureshi reaffirmed Pakistan ‘s support for an Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process and stressed the positive contribution Pakistan has made to the U.S.-Taliban peace agreement.

As the only way to create sustainable peace and security in the region, he stressed the importance of inclusive intra-Afghan negotiations. As part of regional efforts to support the Afghan peace process, the two Foreign Ministers agreed to maintain close consultations.