ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Belarus on Wednesday agreed to cooperate in the field of nuclear energy and on devising a tripartite trade mechanism by involving a third country. “Pakistan and Belarus want to promote cooperation in nuclear energy for peaceful means,” President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko said in a joint press stakeout with Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, following their meeting held here at the Prime Minister’s House. President Lukashenko said Belarus and Pakistan could expand their trade horizon by including a third country, for example China. He termed the talks with Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif as constructive, saying they focused on further strengthening the foundation of friendship laid during his earlier visit to Pakistan last year. He said Belarus was aware of the hard time Pakistan was experiencing in its relations with a neighbouring country. “Dear Sharif, you are aware of the position of Belarus, as it is looking forward to a peaceful resolution to the issue,” Lukashenko said, referring to the ongoing tense situation between Pakistan and India. He mentioned that the two sides agreed to cooperate in industry and agriculture and delegations from both sides would visit each other soon. He expressed interest in mutual cooperation in the banking sector. Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif said the visit of President Alexander Lukashenko would instill new momentum to the multi-faceted relationship of Pakistan and Belarus. He mentioned that the signing of agreements and Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) between the two countries today would usher in a new era of prosperity for their people. Pakistan and Belarus on Wednesday inked 18 accords of cooperation in diverse fields including aviation, education, customs and banking. Nawaz Sharif said he had a detailed discussion with President Lukashenko on regional and international issues, and thanked him for supporting Pakistan’s position on different matters. President Lukashenko suggested Pakistan utilise the expertise of its construction companies. An understanding on establishing direct air links in order to strengthen bilateral ties was also reached during the meeting, he said. He invited Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to visit Belarus at his convenience. app