KARACHI: Russia’s Consul General Oleg N Avdeev has said that his country is looking forward to strengthening trade relations with Pakistan. Addressing an iftar dinner organised by the Korangi Association of Trade and Industry in his honour, he said that Trade Development Authority of Pakistan Chief Executive Officer SM Muneer was playing a vital role for Pak-Russia business relations. On the occasion, Muneer said that Pakistani exporters should focus on Russian markets as there was a huge potential for Pakistani products and goods. He urged the business community to visit and explore Russian markets. “There is a friendly environment for business people and the government (of Russia) gives preference to investors and businessmen,” he said. He also praised the consul general for his efforts to build new relations of business community of Pakistan with Russia. KATI President Zahid Saeed said that things were changing internationally and the Pak-Russia relations were developing in very positive direction in this perspective, especially since the last few years. He said that both the countries have great potential for business and investment projects. “Our leader SM Muneer is playing a key role for developing business relations with Russia and he took delegations to those areas where any Pakistani delegation never visited before,” he said. Former presidents, members of the KATI executive committee and other representatives of trade and industry community were also present in this event.