Russia has expressed strong interest in expanding SCO cooperation with Pakistan, particularly in counter-terrorism and regional stability, according to Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. He shared these views during a meeting with Pakistan’s Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) on Foreign Affairs, Tariq Fatemi, in Moscow on June 3.
Pakistan Reaffirms Strategic Partnership
Fatemi conveyed Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s greetings and emphasized Pakistan’s intent to deepen cooperation in energy, trade, and connectivity. He handed over a letter from the Prime Minister to President Vladimir Putin, reinforcing the significance of bilateral ties.
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India’s IWT Suspension Raises Alarms
Fatemi also briefed Lavrov on regional developments, expressing concern over India’s threat to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT). He warned of its serious consequences, especially in light of heightened tensions following the April 22 Pahalgam attack, which left 26 dead. India blamed Pakistan without evidence and launched air and missile strikes, igniting the most intense conflict between the two nations in nearly three decades.
Recent Military Escalation and Ceasefire
Pakistan responded with Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos, downing six Indian jets and numerous drones. The conflict lasted over 87 hours, resulting in the deaths of 53 Pakistanis, including 13 military personnel and 40 civilians. A US-brokered ceasefire was reached on May 10, halting further escalation.
Russia Supports De-escalation and Development
Lavrov welcomed the improvement in Pakistan-Russia ties and expressed satisfaction over joint ventures like new steel mill projects and critical infrastructure development. He also reiterated Russia’s support for peace efforts between India and Pakistan, stressing the importance of dialogue for broader regional stability.
Mutual Focus on Regional Peace
The meeting reflected both countries’ shared interest in strategic stability and cooperation under the SCO framework. Russia’s commitment to expanded ties comes at a time when South Asia remains fragile and under close global scrutiny.
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