ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Russia will hold the fifth round of bilateral political consultations in Islamabad on Tuesday.
Foreign Secretary Dr Asad Majeed Khan will lead the Pakistan delegation while the Russian side will be led by Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko who will visit Islamabad from June 20-21, 2023.
On the occasion, both sides will review the state of bilateral relations, identify areas of mutual interest for further cooperation, and exchange views on important regional and global developments.
A statement by the Foreign Office said Pakistan and Russia enjoy friendly relations marked by mutual respect, trust and understanding. The two countries are commemorating the 75th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations this year.
READ MORE: Pakistan to bring 100,000 tons of oil from Russia
Pakistan and Russia have now developed closer ties in recent months. The first shipment carrying Russian oil docked at the Karachi Port last week.
The ship carrying 45,000 metric tons of crude oil was part of the deal struck in April between the two countries. Another shipment carrying 50,000 metric tons of oil would reach Pakistan soon. Pakistan paid Russia in Chinese currency in a move seen as reducing dependence on US currency.
Pakistan also imported LPG from Russia recently via Afghanistan. This is part of efforts by Pakistan to diversify its options and reduce dependence on the US dollar given the balance of payment crisis.
Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto stressed that Pakistan always opposed bloc politics, saying Islamabad sought mutually beneficial relationship with all big powers.
