ISLAMABAD:
Russian Ambassador Albert P Khorev said on Thursday that they were exploring alternative banking channels with Pakistan to reduce reliance on Western payment networks.
The two countries have long faced problems in making payments. They could not even implement the Pak Stream Gas Pipeline project owing to US and EU sanctions that derailed the entire plan. Pakistan and Russia are now working on drawing up a roadmap to address payment challenges. “We are working with Pakistan to find out alternatives for payments to lessen dependence on Western payment channels,” the ambassador said while addressing a press conference.
Regarding bilateral relations, he emphasised that they had so far been successful in moving ahead on different trade and energy matters. Pakistan and Russia have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for the revival of Pakistan Steel Mills (PSM). “We are determined to revive it (PSM),” he stressed, adding that the two countries were studying the banking sector.
Russia had helped Pakistan to set up the steel mill, and therefore, experts were of the view that it could assist Islamabad again in reviving it.
The envoy mentioned that the Pakistan-Russia Inter-governmental Commission had held a successful meeting in Islamabad. “We are enhancing people-to-people contacts in addition to boosting cultural ties,” he said.
The ambassador pointed out that a monument to the first cosmonaut, Yuri Gagarin, had been unveiled at F-9 Fatima Jinnah Park in Islamabad.
Discussing the role of Russia in normalising relations between Pakistan and India, he said that the two countries should find an amicable solution through diplomatic channels. “If Pakistan and India agree, we are ready to play the role of a mediator to normalise ties between the two neighbours,” he said while responding to a question. About the Indian-held Kashmir issue, he proposed that Pakistan and India should resolve the matter without the involvement of a third party.
He welcomed regional connectivity between Pakistan and Central Asian states, noting it would strengthen the partnership between Pakistan and Russia. He lauded the role of Pakistan in resolving the Ukraine crisis, saying Pakistan remained neutral despite bearing pressure. Islamabad has insisted on addressing issues through diplomatic channels.
