Pakistan and Russia have reiterated the commitment to expand trade and economic ties, along with enhancing regional connectivity. This resolve was expressed at a meeting between President Asif Ali Zardari and Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexei Overchuk in Islamabad today. They also underscored the importance of fostering mutually beneficial cooperation in key sectors including agriculture, food security, business, education, railways, science and technology, and promoting stronger people-to-people connections. It was highlighted that there is a great scope to increase bilateral cooperation in the agriculture sector and undertake joint ventures for the mutual benefit of the two countries The President emphasized exploring possibilities for barter trade and improving connectivity to strengthen economic relations between the two countries. He also called for easing visa regulations and increasing connectivity through railways and direct flights to enhance people to people and business to business contacts between Pakistan and Russia. On his part, the Russian Deputy Prime Minister said his country is looking forward to improve cooperation with Pakistan in the areas of food security, science and technology, education, connectivity and railways. He said the upcoming visit of the Russian Prime Minister to Pakistan next month, would provide another opportunity to further strengthen bilateral relations. Alexei Overchuk said Russia holds tremendous respect for all religions and Muslim culture, and has condemned the desecration of the Holy Quran. The meeting was informed that a 75-member business delegation from Pakistan would visit Russia next month to explore avenues for business and economic cooperation. Source: Radio Pakistan