Danila Ganich, the Russian Federation’s Ambassador, has expressed a desire for an independent means of payment between Pakistan and Russia in order to boost trade activity.
During a seminar titled ‘Pakistan-Russia Relations and the Way Ahead,’ organised by the Islamabad Policy Research Institute (IPRI), the Russian Ambassador shed light on various topics pertaining to the Ukraine-Russia War, Pak-Russia bilateral ties, and regional issues.
The Ambassador stated that bilateral relations with Pakistan were excellent at all levels, with expanding understandings on the political, military, and commercial fronts.
He highlighted Russia’s generosity in backing Pakistan’s anti-Islamophobia stance and stated that all religions should be respected. He chastised the West for irrationally promoting free speech, especially when it means polarising society.
“We support counter-terrorism measures alongside Pakistan because we understand that your country has paid a high price in the form of 80,000 casualties during the war on terrorism,” Ganich added.
He stated that military drills known as ‘Friendship’ between the two countries will continue, with an episode planned for next year.
Ambassador Ganich stated that his country is willing to deliver oil to Pakistan while under sanctions, but that the conversations are confidential and the conditions are agreed upon by independent commercial parties.