On Wednesday, Pakistan and Russia reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral relations by expanding trade, energy cooperation, regional connectivity, and strengthening defense ties.
This was emphasized during a joint press conference held by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, along with visiting Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexei Overchuk, following delegation-level talks at the Foreign Office.
The discussions covered the full scope of bilateral cooperation, with both sides exploring ways to build on the positive momentum of their relationship over the last two decades. Mr. Dar announced a significant achievement in bilateral trade, revealing that trade between the two nations had reached $1 billion in the previous fiscal year.
He praised the growing partnership and reiterated that collaboration with Russia remains a key priority in Pakistan’s foreign policy. “Pakistan-Russia relations have progressed significantly, and we are dedicated to strengthening this partnership based on mutual trust and respect,” Dar stated.
Dar, Overchuk stress potential for enhanced energy cooperation
Both sides expressed a shared vision to boost trade, focusing on overcoming logistical challenges and addressing sanctions on Russia to increase trade volumes.
Energy Cooperation
Mr. Dar highlighted energy cooperation as a vital area for growth, noting that Pakistan initiated discussions with Russia on energy purchases, particularly LNG and oil, as early as 2022. Both leaders emphasized the potential for further collaboration in the energy sector.
Connectivity was another key focus, with plans to develop rail and road networks to enhance trade routes between Pakistan and Russia. The Russian Deputy Prime Minister stressed the importance of improving regional infrastructure through the North-South Transport Corridor and linking it with China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
This integrated connectivity could open new trade opportunities between Pakistan, Russia, and Central Asia through existing and new routes via Afghanistan and Iran.
Mr. Overchuk also offered cooperation with the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), an economic alliance of Russia, Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan.
He discussed the potential of a free trade agreement between Pakistan and the EAEU with the Pakistani delegation. “This is something we are open to exploring in greater detail in the coming months,” he said.
Mr. Dar expressed interest in the possibility of negotiating an FTA between Pakistan and the EAEU.
Cultural and Educational Exchanges
With the Pakistan-Russia Trade and Investment Forum set for Moscow on Sept 30 and Oct 1, both sides appeared optimistic that this event will further boost bilateral cooperation. “We expect representatives from many companies in both Pakistan and Russia to participate and explore business opportunities,” said the Russian Deputy PM, calling the forum a unique opportunity for enhancing trade.
Mr. Dar highlighted growing collaboration between Pakistani and Russian universities, while Mr. Overchuk discussed initiatives to promote the Russian language in Pakistan and strengthen educational ties.
Looking forward, both sides have a busy diplomatic schedule.
The Russian Prime Minister is expected to visit Pakistan next month for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation’s (SCO) Council of Heads of Government meeting. Additionally, the ninth session of the Pakistan-Russia Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economy, Science, and Technology is set to take place in Russia by the end of the year.
Experts from both sides will meet on Thursday for detailed discussions on these proposals.
Meeting with the Army Chief
Meanwhile, Army Chief Gen. Asim Munir, during his meeting with the Russian Deputy PM, reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to enhancing defense ties with Russia.
“Both sides reiterated their commitment to strengthening security and defense cooperation across various fields,” stated the ISPR, adding that they also discussed regional security issues and bilateral collaboration.
