President Zardari calls for close engagement with Russia

ISLAMABAD:  Pakistan’s Ambassador- designate to Russia Faisal Niaz Tirmizi called on President Asif Ali Zardari in Islamabad on Monday.

The President congratulated him on the appointment and underlined Russia’s importance as a partner for Pakistan.

He emphasised the ambassador’s role in enhancing political, economic, technological and defence cooperation and asked for efforts to address the recent decline in bilateral trade, promoting energy, investment, transport and agricultural links.

The President emphasised closer engagement with Russian leadership on regional issues including counter terrorism and connectivity. He also encouraged collaboration in higher education, research, space, digital technologies, defence, production and outreach to Russian institutions for scholarships and training opportunities for Pakistani students and professionals.

Asif Ali Zardari stressed the importance of cultural exchanges, tourism and support for the Pakistani community in Russia, as well as engagement with Russian media and think tanks to present Pakistan’s perspective.

The President wished the Ambassador- designate success and assured him of full support during his tenure. Monitoring Desk