ST. PETERSBURG – Web Desk: Russian President Vladimir Putin delivered a firm response to an Indian journalist’s question regarding Pakistan during the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, making clear that it is incorrect to label Pakistan as a country fully under China’s influence.
When an Indian journalist asked about Pakistan-China relations, Putin stated that the impression that Pakistan is completely under China’s influence is wrong. He emphasized that Pakistan is a big and important country with balanced and diverse relations with various nations around the world. Putin’s statement is being seen as a significant diplomatic indication regarding Pakistan’s sovereign foreign policy and international relations.
The Russian President also noted that defense and military cooperation between Russia and China has been ongoing for a long time and will continue in the future, with Moscow-Beijing relations based on mutual interests and strategic partnership. Regarding Iran, Putin said Russia has trust-based relations with Iran and can play a positive role in resolving ongoing tensions in the region. He also reiterated Russia’s readiness for negotiations for a peaceful resolution of the conflict with Ukraine, while claiming that Russian forces have recently gained control of approximately 2,440 square kilometers of Ukrainian territory
