MOSCOW(National times)- The Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Senator Ishaq Dar called on Russian President Vladimir Putin along with other Heads of Government delegations of SCO-member States in Moscow. During the meeting, President Putin welcomed the leaders and emphasized the importance of strengthening regional economic cooperation under the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. He also highlighted the SCO role as a key platform for connectivity, stability, and mutually beneficial development across the region. Earlier, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar held a significant meeting with his Russian counterpart Alexey Overchuk in Moscow, where both sides engaged in detailed discussions on trade expansion, rail connectivity and broader economic cooperation. The talks took place on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting. According to Ishaq Dar, the discussion was “highly comprehensive and result-oriented,” focusing on practical ways to boost bilateral trade volumes, enhance land and railway linkages and strengthen regional economic integration. He emphasised the potential for increased cooperation in multiple sectors, particularly transport and infrastructure, which could play a notable role in facilitating regional connectivity. Dar expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality extended to him during his stay in Russia. He revealed that he was scheduled to depart from Moscow, but extended his visit specifically to hold a meeting with Alexey Overchuk, underlining the importance Pakistan attaches to its relations with Russia.