MOSCOW: The delegation visiting Russia, led by Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) Chief Executive S M Muneer, held meetings with Republic of Bashkortostan Vice Prime Minister I Mikhametdonov along with its International Development Corporation director. The IDC director informed the delegates about importance of Bashkortostan, stating that the region was very rich in oil and gas sector, adding that the state is interested in importing textile products, leather, footwear and fruits and vegetable. In addition to this, he said the state was also interested to import halal food, especially meat from Pakistan, adding that Bashkortostan excelled in producing fine quality of honey and petrochemicals. TDAP Chief Executive S M Muneer informed that meeting about the role of TDAP in enhancing the trade and developing business relationships among importers and exporters. He also shared that TDAP would be bringing a trade caravan to Russia following the success of this caravan in Central Asia. “Russia is our focal market as declared by the Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif after his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. TDAP is following the vision of Prime Minister Sharif for product and market diversification. We are planning to introduce Pakistani mangoes in Russia,” he added. Muneer said TDAP was looking forward for two-way business relations and was expecting one high profile delegation from Russia, especially from Bashkortostan and Kazan. In the said meeting, Pakistan Mission in Russia Deputy Head Ata Munim Shahid, Fruits and Vegetables Association Chairman Waheed Ahmed, FPCCI Committee on Russia Chairman Farooq Afzal and TDAP Europe Director Muhammad Irfan were also present. Waheed Ahmed informed that Pakistan has exported 3,500 containers of mandarins and oranges, adding that Pakistan is one of the leading exporters of potatoes to Russia as well. Bashkortostan Vice Prime Minister I Mikhametdonov assured all kind of assistance to Pakistani businessmen. Earlier, the delegation visited Zatonsky market, which is a big wholesale warehouse and fruit market in the village Mokeosov. The delegation found huge potential for dry dates and fresh fruits and vegetables, expecting a breakthrough in this sector. However, the governments of both countries need to work out on duty structures and other non-tariff barriers to enhance trade relations. The TDAP chief executive asked the vice prime minister to request his government provide assistance in the trade related issues and highlight problems being faced by our business community. Possibilities of joint ventures were also discussed that could be explored and materialised.