Drug trafficking, terrorism: need of closer cooperation with Russia stressed: Speaker

Speaker National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq has said there is a need of closer cooperation between Pakistan and Russia to effectively combat the menaces of drug trafficking and terrorism and ensure peace and stability in the region. Sadiq expressed these views while talking to a parliamentary delegation, headed by Chairman of the State Duma Committee on Security and Counter Corruption of the Russian Federation VI Piskarev, which called on him here at Speaker's House on Tuesday.
Convener Pak-Russian Friendship Group Marvi Memon and Ambassador of the Russian Federation to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan Alexey Y Dedov were also present on the occasion. The speaker informed the Russian delegation that Pakistan is focusing on how to tackle terrorism in the region.
"The speakers from China, Russia, Turkey, Iran and Afghanistan will jointly focus on these common causes in Islamabad from December 23 to December 26 and pave way for a new era of development and prosperity in the region," he said. He said that vast opportunities for Pakistan and Russia are available in the economic and trade sectors that can provide long-term benefits to both the countries.
He stressed the need for further boosting the ties between Pakistan and Russia in the fields of trade, business, energy, defence, textile, metallurgy, manufacturing, etc. The speaker stressed the need for regular interaction between the political and parliamentary leadership to build the bridges of understanding and friendship between Pakistan and Russia. He further said that constant engagement from either side has added depth to the existing relations.
The speaker said that Pakistan considers Russia a valuable friend which has been partner in economic and infrastructure development of the country. He said that he would always endeavor to strengthen the ties between the legislatures of the two countries. VI Piskarev supported to hold a conference in Pakistan devoted to connectivity, security issues and fight against terrorism with the participation of Iran, China, Pakistan, Russia, Turkey and Afghanistan.
He said that Pak-Russia cooperation is highly central for tackling regional challenges including terrorism, drug trafficking and regional stability. He also added that Russia attached immense importance to its relations with Pakistan and assured that Russia is ready to assist Pakistan in diverse fields including agriculture, textile, manufacturing, infrastructure, defense and education.