Lavrov called the development of relations with Pakistan one of Russia's priorities in South Asia.

The development of a mutually beneficial partnership with Pakistan is one of the priorities of Russia's policy in South Asia. This was announced on November 18 by Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov during talks with Pakistani Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar.

"Our relations continue to develop actively. We have common approaches to most key international issues," the Russian Foreign Minister noted.

Moscow and Islamabad closely cooperate in various international formats, including the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and the United Nations (UN), where "very controversial events have been taking place recently," Lavrov said.

"I also expect to talk to you about this today, given that Pakistan is not a permanent member of the [UN] Security Council," the Russian Foreign Minister said.

Abroad: how is the conflict between Kabul and Islamabad developing?

And what significance does it have for the security of the region?

Earlier, on October 20, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said that Russia welcomes the agreement between Afghanistan and Pakistan on a mutual ceasefire. She also added that the Russian Federation calls on Afghanistan and Pakistan to expand partnership between the countries, especially in the field of counterterrorism, which will help strengthen regional security and prevent threats.

At the end of September, Russia, China, Iran and Pakistan, which formed the "four countries", held consultations on the Afghan issue within the framework of the 80th anniversary General Assembly (GA) of the United Nations. Lavrov reported that the sides exchanged assessments and outlined further steps.

All important news is on the Izvestia channel in the MAX messenger.