MOSCOW – Pakistan and Russia have agreed that the rise of ISIS andterrorism in Afghanistan are common enemies of the two states.

After meeting with the Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, Khawaja Asifsaid that terrorist sanctuaries in Afghanistan pose threat to Pakistan andRussia.

During the briefing, he said that Pakistan cannot fight wars of others onits soil.”

There is a terrible situation in Afghanistan, he added while stressingconcerns on the presence of the Islamic State and growing trade of poppy.He reaffirmed that the solution of the problem is in talks, and not amilitary operation.

Asif lauded the role of both Pakistan and Russia in fighting terrorism.

The Pakistani foreign minister Asif reached Russia where he was invited byhis Russian counterpart. Both leaders met in Moscow and briefed the mediapersons after the meeting.

The leadership from Pakistan and Russia discussed current state ofbilateral relations and prospects for their development as well as toexchange opinions on topical issues on the international and regionalagenda, according to the Russian embassy in Islamabad.

The visit would provide opportunity to explore ways and means to furtherstrengthen cooperation in political, economic, trade and investment,defence, education and cultural fields.

Russia enjoys a special place in Pakistan’s foreign policy. The relationsbetween the two countries have been growing steadily in all fields. Regularhigh level exchanges between the two countries in the last few years is amanifestation of mutual desire of both sides for translating political goodwill into a substantive and multidimensional partnership.

The two countries are also celebrating the 70th anniversary ofestablishment of diplomatic relations this year.