ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Russia have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral relations, emphasizing increased trade, energy cooperation, regional connectivity, and enhanced defence ties.
In a joint press conference on Wednesday, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and visiting Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexei Overchuk outlined their shared goals following talks at the Foreign Office. The discussions reviewed the breadth of bilateral cooperation and aimed to build on the positive trajectory in their relationship over the past two decades.
Dar announced a key milestone, revealing that trade between Pakistan and Russia had reached $1 billion in the last fiscal year. He underscored that strengthening this partnership remains a central priority for Pakistan’s foreign policy, stating, “Pakistan-Russia relations have come a long way, and we are committed to strengthening this relationship based on trust and mutual respect.”
Energy and Connectivity Focus
Energy cooperation was a major topic, with discussions highlighting ongoing talks on energy purchases, including LNG and oil. Both leaders agreed on the potential for further collaboration in this sector.
Connectivity also featured prominently, with plans to develop rail and road networks to enhance trade routes between the two nations. Overchuk emphasized the importance of improving regional infrastructure through the North-South Transport Corridor and integrating it with China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). This approach could facilitate trade between Pakistan, Russia, and Central Asia via new routes through Afghanistan and Iran.
Free Trade Agreement and Cultural Exchanges
Overchuk proposed cooperation with the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), which includes Russia, Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan. He suggested exploring the possibility of a free trade agreement between Pakistan and the EAEU. Dar expressed interest in negotiating such an agreement.
The upcoming Pakistan-Russia Trade and Investment Forum, scheduled for September 30 and October 1 in Moscow, is expected to boost bilateral business interactions. Both leaders are optimistic about the forum’s potential to enhance trade relations.
Dar also highlighted the growing collaboration between Pakistani and Russian universities and noted efforts to promote the Russian language in Pakistan.
Future Diplomatic Engagements
Looking ahead, Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin is set to visit Pakistan for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of Government meeting next month. Additionally, the ninth session of the Pakistan-Russia Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economy, Science, and Technology will be held in Russia by the end of the year.
Defence Ties
Army Chief Gen Asim Munir met with Overchuk, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening defence ties with Russia. They discussed regional security dynamics and bilateral cooperation in security and defence.
Both countries will continue in-depth discussions on these proposals, with experts from both sides meeting on Thursday to advance their collaborative efforts.
