Ishaq Dar meets Putin, Russian and Chinese Premiers on SCO sidelines

MOSCOW: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar met Russian President Vladimir Putin, Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, and Chinese Premier Li Qiang, along with other heads of government from SCO member states, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Wednesday.

The meetings took place on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of Government in Moscow, where participants discussed ways to enhance cooperation among member states.

During his interaction with President Putin, the Russian leader welcomed the delegations and stressed the importance of strengthening regional economic cooperation under the SCO, describing the organisation as a vital platform for connectivity, stability, and mutually beneficial development, according to a statement from the DPM’s Office.

Dar also met Chinese Premier Li Qiang, where both sides reaffirmed the “all-weather” Pakistan–China strategic partnership and reviewed bilateral as well as multilateral cooperation, particularly within the SCO framework. They praised the Shanghai Spirit, which guides regional collaboration, and exchanged views on global issues, agreeing to maintain close engagement.

In addition, the foreign minister held an informal discussion with Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, during which they exchanged views on bilateral relations and regional cooperation priorities.

Dar also met Tajikistan’s Prime Minister Kokhir Rasulzoda, congratulating him on assuming the chair for the next Council of Heads of Government meeting and reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening ties across multiple sectors and at international forums.

He further held talks with Uzbekistan’s Prime Minister Abdulla Aripov, appreciating the positive trajectory of Pakistan–Uzbekistan relations and underscoring the importance of high-level exchanges and deeper cooperation within the SCO.

Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar met Adylbek Kasymaliev, Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Head of the Presidential Administration of the Kyrgyz Republic.

The DPM/FM congratulated him on assuming the Chair of the SCO Heads of State (HOS). Highlighting the importance of regional collaboration, the two leaders exchanged views on SCO initiatives & Kyrgyzstan’s assumption of the rotating presidency.