Russian Minister for Trade and Industry, Denis Manturov on Wednesday called on Prime Minister Imran Khan and reaffirmed his country's desire for stronger ties with Pakistan, saying that a vast potential exists for enhancing bilateral cooperation in energy, aviation, industry, railways and agriculture sectors.

The Prime Minister underlined Pakistan's commitment to commence a new phase in the relationship with Russia. The Russian minister conveyed special greetings of President Putin, which were warmly reciprocated by the Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister recalled his extensive interaction with President Putin on the sidelines of the SCO Council of Heads of State in Bishkek in June 2019, in which the two leaders had a fruitful exchange of views. He hoped that President Putin would visit Pakistan at his earliest convenience.

Noting positive developments in Pakistan-Russia relations, the Prime Minister expressed the hope that the two sides would further enhance cooperation in the fields of energy, oil and gas, mineral sector, metallurgy, railways, aviation, IT, agriculture and education. He highlighted the improved macroeconomic stability and business climate and ease of doing business in Pakistan and noted that there are vast opportunities for the Russian companies.

Minister Manturov briefed the Prime Minister on the range of subjects discussed during the 6th session of Pakistan-Russia Intergovernmental Commission held earlier during the day. He affirmed Russia's desire for stronger ties with Pakistan and agreed that vast potential exists for enhancing bilateral cooperation in energy, aviation, industry, railways and agriculture sectors.

During the meeting, the importance of leadership exchanges was emphasized. The Prime Minister stated that he looked forward to his visit to Russia during 2020.