Deputy PM seeks enhanced energy, trade cooperation with 'key player' Russia

• Strengthening ties with Russia is Pakistan's key priority: Dar.
• Cooperation prospects between Pakistan, EEU explored.
• COAS meets Russian Deputy PM, vows to fostering defence ties.

Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar on Wednesday underscored the considerable potential in Pakistan-Russia relations, emphasising the importance of boosting economic ties and increasing cultural and educational exchanges, as well as enhancing cooperation in energy, trade, and regional connectivity.

Dar, who is also the country’s foreign minister, made these remarks while addressing a joint press briefing with Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexei Overchuk, who arrived in Islamabad on two-day official visit earlier today.

Speaking on the occasion, the Deputy PM pledged to tackle logistical challenges in future meetings, including the Pak-Russian intergovernmental commission and Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) discussions, which are crucial for enhancing cooperation on Afghanistan, energy security, and food security.

He stated that the visit of the Russian Deputy Prime Minister and his delegation reflects the growing depth and scope of economic cooperation, highlighting a clear mutual desire to strengthen Pak-Russia relations.

Strengthening bilateral cooperation with the Russian Federation remains a key priority of Pakistan’s foreign policy.

Dar noted that Pak-Russia relations have advanced significantly, with a strong desire to forge cooperation between the two countries. “A step-by-step approach based on trust and mutual respect has placed the relationship on a positive trajectory.”

“Both delegations engaged in in-depth discussions focused on bilateral relations, identifying potential areas for economic expansion. Specific areas of mutual interest were outlined, including trade, economic collaboration, cultural relations, and people-to-people contacts,” he added.

The foreign minister also said Pakistan and Russia see significant potential for cooperation in the agriculture sector.

“Pakistan is eager to join BRICS, which was created by Brazil, Russia, India, and China, and looks forward to a positive role from Russia in helping it join the organisation, as well as participation in other similar organisations,” he added.

He stated that the SCO provides an important forum aimed at promoting peace, development, and stability in the region. Pakistan will collaborate with Russia in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to address a range of global and regional issues, including the situation in Palestine.

Dar said that Pak-Russia bilateral trade reached a record one billion US dollars last year, adding that expanding trade relations by addressing logistical issues is a priority for both sides.

He emphasised the potential for energy cooperation, which will be explored further in detailed discussions, saying that both countries were eager to develop connectivity projects, including railways and roads, extending beyond their borders.

The minister expressed satisfaction over the growing cultural and educational ties between the universities of Pakistan and Russia. He highlighted the productive meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Putin on the sidelines of the SCO summit in July, which set a positive direction for expanding bilateral relations.

He also expressed anticipation for the upcoming visit of Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin for the SCO council meeting next month.

Dar announced that a Russian delegation will visit Pakistan in October. “Preparations are underway for organising the Pak-Russian intergovernmental commission on trade, economy, science and technology, and culture, which is scheduled to take place in Russia by the end of the year.”

“Pakistan views Russia as a key player in West, South, and Central Asia. Both countries have a strong partnership regarding Afghanistan and aim to continue their collaboration for peace and stability in the region. Additionally, Pakistan acknowledges Russia’s historic ties with the Muslim world, its growing cooperation with the OIC, and its stance on the Palestine conflict,” he added.

For his part, Russian Deputy PM Overchuk noted a growing interest in advancing their relationship, which is rooted in 75 years of diplomatic relations.

He noted that Russia engaged in extensive discussions with Dar today covering all sectors of the economy, identifying areas where both countries can support each other. These discussions encompassed a wide range of topics, including energy, trade, connectivity, education, and business-to-business and people-to-people contacts.

Overchuk stated that there is interest in expanding the regional dimensions of these contacts. He mentioned discussions on cooperation with international organisations, including the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, with a council meeting set to take place in Pakistan within a month.

The Russian Deputy prime minister said that their goals and visions for economic ties and cooperation within the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation are well aligned, aiming to improve regional connectivity, increase the use of national currencies, and address the climate agenda, food security, energy transition, and energy security.

On Thursday, he said Russian representatives and relevant Pakistani authorities will discuss a wide range of issues and projects in greater detail.

“We also explored cooperation prospects between Pakistan and the economic union of five member states, including Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Russia, and Kyrgyzstan,” as well as opportunities for a free trade agreement between Pakistan and these five countries.

This year, he said Russia will host the BRICS summit. BRICS, a regional organisation of four nations, serves as a platform for discussions based on mutual respect and consensus.

“The relationship within BRICS has grown stronger, attracting many countries, and we are pleased that Pakistan has applied for membership. Both BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation are aligned, and we support Pakistan’s application, having seen significant expansion in BRICS last year,” he added.

Russian Deputy PM calls on COAS Munir

According to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Russian deputy PM Overchuk called on Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir and discussed matters of mutual interest, regional security dynamics, and bilateral cooperation across various sectors.

The army chief reiterated Pakistan's commitment to fostering traditional defence ties with Russia. Both sides reaffirmed their resolve to strengthen security and defence cooperation in multiple domains.

The visiting dignitary praised the Pakistan Armed Forces' pivotal role in combating terrorism and their tireless efforts to promote peace and stability in the region.