Pakistan and Russia have reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing bilateral ties during a high-level meeting in Islamabad, focusing on trade, energy, education, and cultural cooperation. Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar expressed Pakistan's desire for balanced relations, highlighting a trade volume increase to one billion dollars and optimism for future economic ties. Both countries emphasized cooperation on Afghanistan and discussed the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit, where Pakistan's application for BRICS membership garnered Russian support. The meeting also addressed broader geopolitical issues and the potential establishment of a new steel mill in Karachi with Russian collaboration. Overall, the discussions underscored a mutual goal of transforming bilateral relations into a robust economic partnership.