Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has postponed his scheduled visit to Russia in view of the prevailing internal and regional situation according to an official statement issued by the Government of Pakistan.

The visit described as highly significant for advancing bilateral relations between the two countries was deferred due to recent tense circumstances. The statement added that new dates will be announced after mutual consultation between Islamabad and Moscow.

Earlier Pakistan’s Ambassador to Moscow Faisal Niaz Tirmizi had informed Russian state news agency RIA Novosti that the prime minister was expected to visit Russia from March 3 to 5. The Russian news agency TASS also reported on the planned trip, citing remarks by former senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed at the Moscow Islamabad media forum.

Meanwhile, Russia has urged Afghanistan and Pakistan to halt cross-border attacks and resolve differences through diplomatic means.

In a previous statement Russian President Vladimir Putin reaffirmed close cooperation with Pakistan noting its full membership in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation and describing bilateral ties as mutually beneficial.